Air India Phuket-Delhi Pilot Tests Positive in Confirmatory Drug Test: Report

August 11, 2026

New Delhi: The pilot-in-command of an Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that experienced severe turbulence last week has reportedly tested positive for a narcotic substance in a confirmatory drug test, according to a report.

The development comes amid an ongoing investigation into the incident involving Air India flight AI2379, which was operating from Phuket to Delhi on August 4.

The Airbus A320 experienced severe turbulence during the flight and suddenly lost around 300 feet in altitude. The aircraft later stabilised and landed safely in Delhi. Several passengers and cabin crew members were injured during the incident.

Pilot Taken Off Roster After Initial Test

Following the incident, the pilot-in-command underwent a confirmatory drug test after an initial post-flight psychoactive substance screening returned a non-negative result, requiring further analysis, according to an NDTV Profit report.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had earlier removed the flight crew from the roster pending the outcome of its investigation.

The reported confirmatory test result has emerged while authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the turbulence incident.

Pilots’ Bodies Seek Official Confirmation

Aviation industry representatives have cautioned against drawing conclusions based solely on an initial non-negative screening result.

Captain Sam Thomas, President of the Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPAI), said the pilots’ body has repeatedly sensitised its members about the possibility of commonly used medicines and dietary supplements affecting the results of post-flight drug screening.

Captain C.S. Randhawa, President of the Federation of Indian Pilots, said the airline had not officially released the drug test results.

Randhawa said he would not comment on reports claiming that the pilot had tested positive until there was official confirmation.

“If the test is found positive, cancellation of the pilot’s licence could be among the repercussions,” he said, adding that penalties and other consequences could also affect the pilot’s career.

The investigation into the AI2379 turbulence incident and the reported drug test result remains ongoing.