Air India flight AI2379 probe: Pilot tests positive for Marijuana after mid-air scare

The pilot-in-command of an Air India flight that suffered a sudden loss of altitude during a Phuket-Delhi journey has tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory laboratory test, sources said on Tuesday. The development comes days after the August 4 incident left passengers and crew members injured and triggered an investigation into the flight. The pilot-in-command and co-pilot underwent mandatory psychoactive substance screening following the incident. While the initial test of the pilot-in-command required further confirmation, his sample was subsequently sent to a designated laboratory. The confirmatory test has now returned positive for marijuana, sources said. Both pilots have already been removed from the flying roster pending the investigation. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), however, has cautioned against drawing conclusions from any isolated piece of information while its probe is underway. Investigators will examine technical, operational, medical and human-factor evidence in its entirety. AI2379 Lost Around 300 Feet During Cruise The Airbus A320, registered as VT-EXO, was flying from Phuket to Delhi on August 4 when it experienced a sudden altitude variation of around 300 feet during cruise. The aircraft was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, and eight crew members. According to the latest government statement, 20 passengers and four cabin crew members were injured. The aircraft later stabilised and landed safely in Delhi. The AAIB has taken up the investigation under applicable provisions and International Civil Aviation Organization protocols. Notifications have been sent to ICAO and the concerned states. The probe will examine the aircraft and its systems, recorded flight data, operational and maintenance records, medical information and statements from those concerned. Technical Issues Also Under Probe Investigators are also examining reports of multiple technical anomalies during the flight. Sources had earlier said the aircraft experienced an autopilot disconnect, triple hydraulic failures and other technical and mechanical glitches. The co-pilot reportedly took manual control after the autopilot disconnected. Soon after, a flight-control stall message appeared and several indicator switches briefly went off. The AAIB will determine whether the reported technical failures, turbulence and sudden altitude loss were connected and establish the sequence of events.