---
title: "Air India Pilot Reportedly Fails Drug Screening Following Severe Turbulence Episode"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/air-india-pilot-dope-test-turbulence-investigation-hjlpf
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
published: 2026-08-09T06:20:00.000Z
modified: 2026-08-09T08:00:49.210Z
language: en-IN
---

# Air India Pilot Reportedly Fails Drug Screening Following Severe Turbulence Episode

Investigations into a Phuket-Delhi flight that plunged 300 feet now include the captain's reported positive result for psychoactive substances. Aviation authorities are examining both the flight crew's conduct and the decision to bypass nearby emergency landing sites.

## Key takeaways

- A captain on an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi reportedly tested positive for psychoactive substances after a severe turbulence incident.
- The Airbus A320 dropped 300 feet near Odisha, resulting in the hospitalization of 13 passengers and 4 crew members.
- The DGCA is investigating whether the pilots should have diverted to Varanasi or Lucknow instead of continuing to Delhi.
- Aviation rules require rehabilitation for a first-time positive drug test, with a three-year suspension for a second offense.

## Investigation Into Flight Operations and Crew Conduct

A post-flight drug screening has reportedly returned a positive result for the captain of Air India flight AI-377, which suffered a sudden 300-foot altitude drop during severe turbulence on August 4. The Airbus A320 was carrying 145 individuals when the incident occurred in the airspace near Odisha. Upon landing in Delhi, medical professionals hospitalized 13 passengers and four crew members for injuries sustained during the atmospheric disturbance.

## Air India Response and Regulatory Framework

Air India representatives confirmed that pilots underwent screening in alignment with standard protocols but stated they have not yet received formal documentation of the findings. The airline maintained that its drug testing procedures remain independent of specific operational incidents. Per standard safety requirements, the flight crew remains grounded while the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) conducts its inquiry.

DGCA regulations outline a progressive disciplinary path for substance use. A first-time positive test requires the individual to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation before returning to service. A second offense results in a three-year license suspension, while a third positive test leads to permanent revocation of flying privileges. These rules align with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards, which prohibit license holders from operating aircraft while under the influence of any substance that impairs safety.

## Key Facts

- The Airbus A320 experienced a 300-foot plunge near Odisha during a flight from Phuket to Delhi.
- Hospitalization was required for 17 people, including four crew members, following the arrival in Delhi.
- The DGCA is reviewing why the pilots continued to the final destination instead of diverting to closer airports like Varanasi or Lucknow.
- Investigators are analyzing the aircraft for potential mechanical damage, including hydraulic failure, resulting from the impact of the turbulence.
- Current protocols mandate that pilots remain off-duty throughout the duration of the investigation.

## Why It Matters

The reported drug test result adds a layer of complexity to the technical investigation. Authorities are now tasked with determining if the pilot’s handling of the aircraft during the turbulence was affected by psychoactive substances. Furthermore, the decision-making process regarding the choice not to divert to a nearby airport is under intense scrutiny to ensure future passenger safety in similar emergency scenarios.

Source: The Times of India

---
Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/air-india-pilot-dope-test-turbulence-investigation-hjlpf
Reported from: The Times of India