Expanded Pilot Screening and Safety Measures
Air India has initiated a mandatory screening process for all pilots across the airline group to check for psychoactive substances and prohibited medications.
The mandatory screening initiative applies to over 5,000 pilots flying for both Air India and Air India Express.
Testing locations include the airline's training academy in Gurugram, flight briefing centers, and designated base offices.
The one-time comprehensive screening exercise goes beyond standard regulatory requirements set by civil aviation authorities.
Once the current drive is completed, routine random testing will resume as per regular protocols.
Background of the Investigation and Regulatory Action
The safety initiative was launched after an internal review and official inquiries into a recent flight incident. Media reports confirm that [Air India and Air India Express will begin screening of all their pilots for psychoactive substances after the commander of a Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for marijuana](cite: 1.1.1). Industry updates highlight that [the pilot-in-command of the flight experienced a sudden loss of altitude, prompting intensive investigations by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation](cite: 1.1.1, 1.1.2). Furthermore, government sources indicate that [regulatory bodies are reviewing existing civil aviation requirements to potentially increase random testing frequency and introduce stricter penalties under a revised framework](cite: 1.1.1).
Ongoing Procedures and Future Protocol
As testing gets underway, flight operations teams are coordinating with pilots to ensure smooth compliance without causing major disruptions to flight schedules. Aviation authorities continue to monitor safety compliance closely across all domestic carriers to uphold strict operational discipline. The broader industry response underscores a collective commitment to maintaining high standards of passenger safety and crew accountability.
