Air India Mandates Drug Tests for All Pilots After Incident

Air India is implementing mandatory drug testing for all its pilots, effective Thursday. This decision follows an in-flight incident where a captain reportedly tested positive for marijuana.

Previously, existing regulations mandated that airlines conduct random testing on at least 10% of their flight crews each year to screen for psychoactive substances. The new internal memo signals a significant shift in policy, requiring comprehensive screening for every pilot within the company.

"We have decided to conduct a full screening for all pilots of the Group (company) to detect any unauthorized substances or drugs under the prevailing regulations. These tests are mandatory and will commence today," the memo stated. This measure comes after an Airbus A320 lost altitude shortly after departing from Phuket, Thailand, en route to New Delhi on August 4, injuring at least 24 passengers.

Local media reports suggested the captain involved in that incident tested positive for marijuana in a second confirmation test. Air India has stated that the test results have not yet been shared with the company. Indian investigators are reportedly examining evidence related to the flight, with support from Airbus and the French aviation safety agency BEA. The incident occurs as Air India works to improve its operations amid a history of issues, including a fatal crash in June 2025.