New Delhi, Aug 9 — Air India on Sunday said that it “undertakes regular drug testing of crew members” in compliance with civil aviation regulations, after reports surfaced that captain of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi, that was hit by severe turbulence and left many injured, has been allegedly tested positive for psychoactive substances. The airline, however, said “the results of the test have not been shared with Air India."
According to reports, citing multiple sources, the test was conducted after the aircraft landed in Delhi on August 4.
"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 Air India spokesperson said in a statement.
The spokesperson further stated that “We will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities as required.”
The Airbus A320, carrying 145 people, encountered severe turbulence while flying over Odisha before experiencing a sudden drop of about 300 feet.
Eight passengers and four cabin crew members were admitted to hospitals for detailed medical evaluation and treatment, while the remaining passengers were provided with the necessary assistance and support.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) launched a detailed investigation into the incident.
According to the ministry, Air India Flight AI2379, operated by an Airbus A320 aircraft (registration VT-EXO), encountered a momentary altitude variation during the flight. The aircraft subsequently stabilised and landed safely at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.
The flight was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, along with eight crew members comprising two pilots and six cabin crew.
"The DGCA has initiated a detailed investigation into the occurrence. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and DGCA are closely monitoring the situation," the Ministry of Civil Aviation said in an earlier statement.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu visited the hospital, along with Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha. to enquire about the condition of the injured passengers and assure them of all necessary assistance.