Air India Dismisses Pilot Following Positive Drug Test in Phuket-Delhi Flight Incident
Air India has terminated the employment of the Pilot-in-Command of its Phuket-Delhi flight after he tested positive for a psychoactive substance. The decision aligns with the airline’s strict policy against safety violations. An Air India spokesperson confirmed the termination followed a preliminary report from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) regarding an incident on August 4, where the pilot’s substance test returned a non-negative result.
Pilot Tested Non-Negative in Confirmatory Test
The AAIB’s preliminary findings indicated that both pilots underwent medical checks after landing in Delhi. While their breath analyser tests were satisfactory, the Pilot-in-Command’s sample tested non-negative for psychoactive substances. A subsequent blood test confirmed the initial findings, while the co-pilot tested negative. The AAIB expressed serious concern over the pilot’s substance use and urged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to take immediate action to prevent such occurrences. The report did not link the substance finding to the aircraft’s altitude upset, and a detailed investigation is ongoing.
Multiple Hydraulic Failures During Flight
During the flight, the Airbus A320 experienced multiple hydraulic failures while cruising at 36,000 feet. The flight-control system detected a loss of pressure in the green hydraulic system, followed by losses in the blue and yellow systems shortly after. The autopilot disengaged, and a stall warning was issued. The co-pilot initially managed the situation before the Pilot-in-Command took control. The aircraft experienced a gain of 372 feet followed by a drop of 292 feet from its assigned altitude. The hydraulic systems recovered shortly thereafter, restoring normal flight operations.
Passengers and Crew Injured
The altitude upset occurred while the seat-belt signs were off, leading to injuries among passengers and cabin crew. Upon landing in Delhi, 20 passengers and four crew members required medical attention. While 20 individuals were treated for minor injuries and discharged, four with serious injuries were hospitalized. The flight crew opted to continue to Delhi instead of diverting to a nearby airport. The aircraft landed safely at IGI Airport and requested medical priority upon arrival. The incident caused significant damage inside the cabin, including cracked ceiling panels and dislodged overhead-bin doors. The AAIB’s investigation continues, focusing on flight recorders and other relevant materials.
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