The pilot-in-command of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi, which encountered severe turbulence last week, has tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory screening test, according to sources cited by news agency PTI on Tuesday.
The incident involving flight AI2379 occurred on August 4 when the Airbus A320 aircraft suddenly lost around 300 feet in altitude after encountering mid-air turbulence. At least 17 people were injured during the incident.
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The flight was carrying 145 people, including 137 passengers and eight crew members, when the turbulence struck during the journey from Phuket in Thailand to New Delhi.
Following the incident, both pilots underwent the mandatory psychoactive substance screening process prescribed for flight crew members.
The initial screening of the pilot-in-command reportedly indicated a result that required further confirmatory testing. The sample was subsequently sent to a designated laboratory for detailed analysis.
The Civil Aviation Ministry had confirmed on August 9 that the initial test conducted on the pilot-in-command had produced a result requiring confirmatory examination.
“The screening test in respect of the Pilot-in-Command (PIC) indicated a result requiring confirmatory testing. Samples have accordingly been sent to the designated laboratory for confirmatory analysis, and the final report is awaited,” the ministry said in a statement.
According to the latest reports, the confirmatory analysis has now returned a positive result for marijuana, a psychoactive substance.
The development is likely to become a key part of the investigation into the incident and could trigger further regulatory action against the pilot, depending on the findings of the authorities and applicable aviation rules.
