New Delhi, Aug 9: One of the pilots operating an Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that encountered severe turbulence and briefly lost around 300 feet in altitude has reportedly failed a post-flight drug screening test, according to sources, as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) investigates the August 5 incident.
Both pilots of the flight have been de-rostered, or removed from flying duties, pending the completion of the regulatory probe, the sources said.
The Air India A320, operating as flight AI2379, encountered severe turbulence during its Phuket-New Delhi journey, resulting in a sudden altitude loss of around 300 feet. At least 17 people, including four cabin crew members, were injured in the incident.
The reported drug-test result has not, however, been officially confirmed by Air India. The airline said the test findings had not been shared with it and that it was therefore unable to comment on the reported result.
“We are aware that a post-flight screening test was conducted on the pilots in accordance with applicable protocols. However, the results of the test have not been shared with Air India, and we are therefore not in a position to comment on any findings,” an airline spokesperson said.
The airline said it routinely conducts drug testing of crew members in accordance with civil aviation regulations, independently of specific flights or operational incidents.
“Air India undertakes regular drug testing of crew members in compliance with civil aviation regulations, independent of any specific flight or operational incident,” the spokesperson said, adding that the airline would continue to cooperate with the authorities.
The incident is being investigated by the DGCA. A senior source in the Ministry of Civil Aviation said the findings of the DGCA inquiry would be considered before determining whether the matter requires a further investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu had said the severe turbulence lasted around five minutes and resulted in injuries to passengers and crew members. Some crew members suffered injuries around the tailbone and neck areas and were advised medical rest.
The reported drug-test development comes as investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the aircraft’s sudden altitude loss and the injuries sustained onboard.
