**Air India Implements Immediate Drug Testing for All Pilots Following Safety Incident**
In a significant move to enhance safety protocols, Air India has announced that it will begin testing all of its pilots for banned substances, effective immediately. This decision comes in the wake of a concerning incident involving a flight from Phuket to Delhi, where the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude shortly after takeoff. Preliminary reports indicated that the senior pilot had to retake a substance test, having reportedly tested positive for marijuana.
The airline's budget subsidiary, Air India Express, will also implement similar testing procedures starting Thursday. This initiative aims to reassure passengers and stakeholders about the airline's commitment to safety and professionalism.
Current regulations stipulate that at least 10% of pilots are randomly tested for prohibited substances. However, Air India's management has expressed the need to extend these measures, emphasizing that the new testing protocols will go beyond the existing regulatory requirements. In a memo to staff, the airline stated, "This initiative reflects our determination to uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism, and to provide reassurance to our passengers, stakeholders, and the community at large."
The incident that prompted this policy change occurred on August 4, when the Airbus aircraft lost approximately 91 meters (300 feet) in altitude shortly after departing from Phuket. The event resulted in injuries to 17 passengers and crew members. Following the incident, both pilots involved have been removed from their duties pending the outcome of an investigation being conducted by Indian authorities in collaboration with Airbus and France's air safety agency.
Air India has faced scrutiny in recent years regarding its safety record. Notably, a tragic crash in June 2025, which involved a flight from Ahmedabad to London, resulted in the deaths of 241 individuals on board and 19 on the ground, with only one passenger surviving. This history has heightened the airline's focus on safety measures and protocols.
The new drug testing will encompass not only illegal substances but also medications that are prohibited under aviation regulations. These tests are being conducted in conjunction with training sessions at Air India's academy, as well as at various briefing centers and offices across the organization.
The announcement of the drug testing initiative coincides with a leadership change at the airline. Last week, Tewolde Gebremariam, the former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, was appointed as Air India's new chief executive. His leadership will be crucial as the airline navigates the challenges of enhancing safety standards while also addressing financial concerns.
As Air India embarks on this new chapter, the implementation of comprehensive drug testing for pilots is a critical step in restoring confidence among passengers and ensuring the highest levels of safety in its operations.