New Delhi (Gurpreet Singh): The pilot in command of an Air India flight that experienced a sudden 300-foot altitude loss during cruise last week has tested positive for psychoactive substances in a confirmatory laboratory test, according to official sources. The development came as Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu convened a meeting with Air India’s outgoing Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson to demand a direct update on the incident. Minister Naidu emphasized that aviation safety remains the top priority for the ministry, asserting that no compromise would be tolerated from airlines, regulators, or key industry stakeholders.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is leading the probe into the Phuket-Delhi flight. Investigators are systematically evaluating technical, operational, medical, and human-factor evidence linked to the sudden descent. The incident occurred on August 4 aboard an Airbus A320 registered as VT-EXO while operating a scheduled international flight. The aircraft, carrying 137 passengers including three infants alongside eight crew members, stabilized following the altitude variation and landed safely in New Delhi. However, injuries were reported to 20 passengers and four cabin crew members.
Following standard safety protocols after the occurrence, both operating pilots were subjected to mandatory screening for psychoactive substances. While the co-pilot cleared the initial evaluation, the sample provided by the pilot in command indicated potential anomalies during preliminary testing. Subsequent examination at a designated laboratory confirmed the positive result. Consequently, both flight crew members have been withdrawn from active roster duties pending the completion of the official inquiry into the flight sequence.
Despite the laboratory findings, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau has cautioned against reaching definitive conclusions based solely on individual pieces of evidence while the broader probe remains active. The investigative body stated that all physical data, cockpit records, and medical parameters are being examined holistically before establishing final contributing factors. Air India executives briefed senior officials from the ministry and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation during Tuesday’s high-level session. Preliminary findings from the investigative team are expected to be released in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation protocols.
