Air India Pilot Fails Drug Test Following Severe Turbulence Incident on Phuket-Delhi Route
Investigations into a sudden altitude drop on an Air India flight have revealed that one pilot failed a post-flight drug screening. The August 5 incident left 17 people injured after the aircraft plunged 300 feet mid-flight.
Key takeaways
- One pilot on Air India flight AI2379 failed a drug test after a severe turbulence event on August 5.
- The aircraft experienced a sudden 300-foot altitude drop, causing 17 injuries including spinal trauma to crew members.
- The DGCA has grounded both pilots while it determines if the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau needs to intervene.
Investigation Triggered by Mid-Air Plunge
Authorities have grounded two pilots following a flight from Phuket to New Delhi that experienced a violent loss of altitude. Sources indicate that one of the flight deck crew members failed a mandatory drug screening conducted after the aircraft landed. This development follows an August 5 incident where Flight AI2379, an Airbus A320, encountered extreme turbulence and dropped 300 feet during its journey.
Injury Toll and Medical Status
The sudden movement of the aircraft resulted in 17 injuries among the 137 passengers and eight crew members. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu reported that the turbulence persisted for approximately five minutes. While most injuries were minor, four cabin crew members were among the hurt. Medical professionals have advised rest for specific crew members who sustained spinal injuries near the neck and tailbone areas.
Regulatory Oversight and Airline Response
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is currently spearheading the probe into the altitude loss. Depending on the DGCA's findings, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) may launch a secondary, more intensive inquiry. Air India stated that while they are aware of the post-flight screenings mandated by safety protocols, the specific results have not yet been formally shared with the airline by the testers. The carrier maintained that it conducts regular, independent drug testing in accordance with national civil aviation regulations.
Key Facts
- The incident involved an Air India Airbus A320 flying from Phuket to New Delhi on August 5.
- The aircraft dropped 300 feet in altitude during a five-minute period of severe turbulence.
- A total of 17 people were injured, including several crew members with spinal trauma.
- Both pilots have been de-rostered and removed from active duty pending the investigation results.
- One pilot reportedly failed a post-flight dope test, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Source: India Today
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