Passengers and stakeholders of Air India are set to gain reassurance as the airline begins testing all its pilots for banned substances, a move that comes after one of its planes lost altitude last week, resulting in injuries to 17 passengers and crew. The incident, which occurred on a Phuket to Delhi flight, is being investigated by Indian authorities, with assistance from Airbus and France's air safety agency. Preliminary reports indicate that the senior pilot had to retake their substance test, having previously tested positive for marijuana.
The airline's decision to test all pilots, including those at its budget arm Air India Express, goes beyond existing regulatory requirements, which mandate random testing of at least 10% of pilots. In a memo, Air India stated that this initiative reflects its determination to uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism, providing reassurance to passengers, stakeholders, and the community. Both pilots of the flight that lost altitude have been removed from duties until the investigation is complete.
The move is particularly significant given the airline's recent history, including a June 2025 crash that killed 241 people on board and 19 on the ground. The tests, which will be carried out alongside training sessions at Air India's academy and other locations, will cover substances as well as medications prohibited under aviation regulations. The airline's new chief executive, former Ethiopian Airlines boss Tewolde Gebremariam, who took office last week, will oversee the implementation of this new measure.
As the investigation into the recent incident continues, Air India's actions are seen as a step towards regaining the trust of its passengers and stakeholders. The airline's commitment to safety and professionalism will be closely watched, particularly in the aftermath of the June2025 crash, which raised questions about the airline's safety protocols. With the testing of all pilots for banned substances, Air India aims to demonstrate its dedication to upholding the highest standards of safety in the aviation industry.
