The recent Air India Phuket-Delhi flight incident left passengers shaken. During the flight, over 300 passengers were injured. Taking this incident into consideration, as part of Air India’s new standard operating procedure (SOP), all pilots need to undergo drug testing. Read on to know more!
Air India Pilots Fail Drug Test
Air India has launched a drug screening programme, with over 350 pilots included in it. Hindustan Times reported that during the latest screening, two pilots have tested non-negative for psychoactive substances. But wait! That doesn’t mean the pilots have tested positive for drug use. As per aviation rules, further testing and assessment need to be done.
Air India started the drug testing for pilots on August 13. Air India’s head of flight operations, Manish Uppal, informed the pilots about the mandatory tests through an internal email. The testing covers pilots from both Air India and Air India Express. Both airlines combined have around 5,000 pilots. The mandatory tests are being carried out at the group’s Gurugram academy. Pilots are also being tested at Flight Briefing Centres, Air India offices and other locations chosen by their bases.
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Why Has Drug Testing Become Mandatory?
The airline has made drug testing compulsory after the Air India Phuket-Delhi flight incident. On August 4, 20206, the Airbus A320neo was flying from Phuket to Delhi when it suddenly lost control and fell 300 feet while it was in the air. After the incident, the commander of the flight tested positive for marijuana in both an initial screening and a later confirmatory test.
After the results came out, he was removed from flying duties, and the investigation is continuing. Hindustan Times reported that the pilot said he was taking prescribed medication because of his sleep-related issues.
This incident has raised serious concern among Air India passengers!
Also Read: Varanasi Airport: Air India Express Flyer’s Pistol Accidentally Fires During Screening, 2 Injured
Cover Image Courtesy: Facebook/ @airindia
FAQs
What happened in Air India Phuket-Delhi flight?
The Air India Phuket-Delhi flight suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude, injuring several passengers and crew members before landing safely in Delhi.