Government Warns Air India, Orders Tighter Drug Tests
The government has warned Air India to strengthen operational oversight and “take responsibility” for safety following a serious incident involving its Phuket-Delhi flight AI 2379 on August 4. The aviation ministry has also directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to review and strengthen drug-testing rules for aviation personnel.
Government Warns Air India Over Safety
The government has taken a serious view of the incident involving AI 2379, which was carrying 145 people.
During the flight, the aircraft reportedly received multiple warnings involving its three hydraulic systems, doors and elevator controls, while the autopilot also disengaged. The aircraft also experienced a loss of altitude during cruise, resulting in injuries to several people onboard.
Authorities are examining whether the warnings reflected genuine technical failures or were triggered erroneously.
DGCA Told to Strengthen Drug Testing
The aviation ministry has directed the DGCA to revise its rules governing testing of aviation personnel for psychoactive substances.
The regulator has been asked to increase the percentage of personnel undergoing mandatory testing and introduce stronger penalties in cases involving prohibited or recreational drug use.
Officials are also considering a distinction between positive test results caused by prescribed medicines and those involving prohibited substances.
Air India Pilot Conduct Under Investigation
The pilot-in-command has reportedly told investigators that he had been prescribed sleeping medication due to personal circumstances and claimed this contributed to his positive drug test.
His conduct during the flight is also under investigation following concerns raised by cabin crew.
Airbus representatives, aviation investigators and technical experts are examining the aircraft and flight data to determine what caused the multiple cockpit warnings and altitude loss.
