Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 17: Two more Air India pilots have reportedly failed preliminary drug tests conducted by the airline as part of an expanded screening programme introduced following a recent in-flight incident involving a Phuket-Delhi service.
According to an NDTV report citing sources, final test results for the two pilots are awaited, and both have been de-rostered pending confirmation.
The Tata-owned airline ordered drug testing for all its pilots under a new standard operating procedure (SOP) after the pilot-in-command of a Phuket-Delhi flight allegedly failed two urine tests following the aircraft's landing. Marijuana was also reportedly detected in his system.
More than 300 Air India pilots have reportedly undergone the screening so far. Final drug test results typically take between 24 and 48 hours to be processed.
A cabin crew member who was on the Phuket-Delhi flight is also believed to have lodged a complaint alleging that the pilot had previously smoked marijuana.
The airline's decision to intensify drug screening followed an incident involving an Airbus A320neo operating on the Phuket-Delhi route. The aircraft reportedly suffered a sudden loss of control over key flight-control surfaces and descended by around 300 feet.
Initial reports had attributed the incident to turbulence. However, subsequent analysis of aircraft system data reportedly indicated multiple hydraulic system failures.
According to reports, the aircraft's elevators, ailerons and spoilers were affected for several seconds following failures across the aircraft's hydraulic systems. These systems play a critical role in controlling the aircraft's pitch, roll and descent.
In a letter issued to pilots, the airline said that from August 13 it had begun mandatory screening of all pilots across the group for substances or medications prohibited under aviation regulations.
The expanded testing programme is aimed at reinforcing aviation safety standards and strengthening public confidence, the airline said.