Air India Pilot Faces Psychoactive Test After Altitude Loss Incident

An Air India pilot-in-command is undergoing confirmatory testing for psychoactive substances, a direct consequence of an August 4, 2026 incident where a flight experienced significant altitude loss.

The initial screening indicated results requiring further analysis, prompting the ongoing confirmatory process. This development casts a spotlight on airline operational safety protocols and crew fitness.

Incident Details Emerge

• On August 4, 2026, Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320, was traveling from Phuket to Delhi.
• During its cruise phase, the aircraft suddenly lost approximately 300 feet of altitude.
• The flight later stabilized and landed safely in Delhi, but a few passengers and cabin crew reported minor injuries.

Following this serious event, both flight crew members underwent mandatory psychoactive substance screening as per standard operating procedures. The pilot-in-command’s sample was flagged for deeper analysis.

Regulatory Response and Investigation

• The Civil Aviation Ministry has officially classified the incident as serious.
• An investigation is actively underway by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has removed both flight crew members from the roster.

This removal will remain in effect pending the full completion of the investigation and the conclusive results from the confirmatory psychoactive substance tests. Future actions will be determined solely based on these impending findings, underscoring the gravity of the situation for Air India’s operational integrity.