Air India Pilot involved in Severe Turbulence Incident Fails Second Dope Test for Marijuana, Off-Rostered by DGCA
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An Air India pilot who recently operated a flight hit by severe mid-air turbulence has failed a mandatory second dope test for marijuana, according to senior aviation sources. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and airline management have pulled the aviator off flying duties following the repeat positive result, escalating safety concerns around flight crew protocols.
Turbulence Incident Triggers Mandatory Psychoactive Substance Screening
The pilot came under regulatory scrutiny after the aircraft encountered severe turbulence during a routine flight, prompting standard post-incident protocol checks. In line with DGCA regulations introduced for civil aviation safety, crew members involved in major flight incidents or accidents must undergo mandatory testing for psychoactive substances.
The initial screening returned a positive result for marijuana, triggering a second confirmatory test at a government-certified laboratory. The second test confirmed the presence of the substance, corroborating the initial findings and forcing regulatory authorities to intervene immediately.
Zero-Tolerance Policy: Strict Action Expected Under DGCA Rules
Following the double positive test, Air India de-rostered the pilot and initiated internal disciplinary proceedings. Under DGCA guidelines governing drug and alcohol testing for flight crews and air traffic controllers, a positive result for psychoactive substances carries severe penalties:
- First Offence: Immediate grounding and suspension of the pilot's license for a minimum specified period alongside mandatory rehabilitation protocols.
- Repeat Violations: Permanent cancellation of the flight crew license and cancellation of medical fitness certification.
Airline safety officials confirmed that a detailed report has been submitted to the aviation regulator, which is reviewing the timeline of events to determine if any operational safety lapses occurred prior to or during the turbulence-hit flight.
