Air India Pilots Fail Drug Tests Amid Enhanced Safety Measures
Air India Implements Stricter Drug Testing Protocols
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New Delhi, Aug 17: Recent reports indicate that two additional pilots from Air India have not passed preliminary drug screenings as part of a newly expanded testing initiative. This program was introduced following a concerning incident on a flight from Phuket to Delhi.
According to sources, the final results of the tests are still pending, and both pilots have been temporarily removed from duty until confirmation is received.
The Tata Group-owned airline has mandated drug testing for all pilots under a revised standard operating procedure (SOP) after the pilot in charge of a Phuket-Delhi flight reportedly failed two urine tests upon landing.
Furthermore, it has been reported that marijuana was found in his system.
So far, over 300 pilots from Air India have participated in this testing initiative.
Typically, it takes between 24 to 48 hours to process the final results of drug tests.
A complaint from a cabin crew member on the same flight alleged that the pilot had previously consumed marijuana.
The airline's decision to enhance testing protocols was prompted by an incident involving an Airbus A320neo on the Phuket-Delhi route.
This aircraft reportedly experienced a sudden loss of control over critical flight control surfaces, resulting in a descent of approximately 300 feet. Initial assessments suggested turbulence was the cause, but further analysis of the aircraft's systems indicated multiple hydraulic failures.
Reports indicate that the aircraft's elevators, ailerons, and spoilers were compromised for several seconds due to these hydraulic system failures, which are crucial for managing the aircraft's pitch, roll, and descent.
In a letter sent to pilots, the airline announced that as of August 13, it has begun mandatory screenings for all pilots across the organization for substances or medications banned under aviation regulations. This measure aims to enhance safety standards and restore public confidence.