The investigation into an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi that experienced a sudden 300-foot altitude drop took a major turn following revelations about the captain's medical condition and post-flight screening results. During questioning by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), the pilot-in-command, who tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory drug test, stated that he had been taking prescription medication for severe sleep difficulties caused by personal stress. He explained to investigators that he struggled to sleep during his layover in Thailand prior to taking charge of the aircraft.
The mid-air incident occurred on August 4 when Airbus A320 flight AI2379 encountered unexpected altitude loss over Indian airspace, leaving several passengers and crew members injured before the flight crew regained control and landed safely in New Delhi. Mandatory post-landing drug testing required under Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations flagged the captain for psychoactive substances, with subsequent laboratory analysis confirming the presence of marijuana. Both pilots were immediately taken off flying duties as formal safety inquiries got underway.
The high-profile safety violation triggered immediate scrutiny from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, with Union Minister K. Rammohan Naidu summoning top airline leadership to review crew monitoring protocols and operational safety standards. While investigators analyze flight recorder data alongside technical reports regarding potential system glitches, the pilot faces severe disciplinary proceedings under civil aviation rules, ranging from mandatory rehabilitation programs to potential license cancellation.
