Air India Pilot Fired After Phuket Delhi Flight Plunges 300 Feet Under Drug Influence

In a significant move towards ensuring passenger safety and maintaining strict professional standards, Air India has terminated the services of a pilot-in-command following a harrowing incident involving a flight from Phuket to Delhi. The incident, which occurred on August 4, saw the aircraft suddenly plunge 300 feet, resulting in injuries to several passengers and crew members. The decision to dismiss the pilot comes after a detailed investigation confirmed the presence of a psychoactive substance in the pilot's system during the flight operations.

Details of the Flight and the Mid-Air Scare

The flight in question, AI 2379, was operating from Phuket to Delhi using an Airbus A320-251N aircraft. The specific aircraft involved in this incident carried the registration number VT-EXO. On that day, the plane was carrying a total of 145 individuals, which included 2 pilots and 6 cabin crew members. During the course of the journey, the aircraft experienced a sudden and drastic loss of altitude, dropping approximately 300 feet. This unexpected movement caused chaos inside the cabin and led to physical injuries for many on board. According to a 10 page preliminary report, after the flight landed at Delhi airport, 24 people required medical assistance, out of which 4 individuals had sustained serious injuries.

Investigation Findings and AAIB Report

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released findings today confirming that the pilot-in-command of the Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for the consumption of a psychoactive substance. The AAIB stated that the test results for the pilot weren't negative, which is a matter of grave concern for aviation safety. The bureau emphasized that the consumption of such substances by flight crew is a serious issue and has recommended that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) take appropriate action on a priority basis, while initially, the incident was reported as the flight encountering turbulence on its way to Delhi. However, based on the evidence collected and the assessment of the injuries sustained by those on board, the AAIB has now categorized this event as an accident.

Air India's Zero Tolerance Policy

An Air India spokesperson provided details regarding the action taken against the pilot, stating that the pilot-in-command's investigation revealed the presence of a psychoactive substance. The spokesperson reiterated that Air India maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding matters of safety, fitness, and violation of regulations. Consequently, the pilot's employment was terminated with immediate effect. The investigation team conducted thorough inquiries at Delhi airport, questioning the cabin crew and the flight crew members. The two members of the flight crew were interrogated separately to gather accurate data and records from different parties involved in the operation of the flight. The agency is currently scrutinizing all collected data to understand the full scope of the lapse that led to this dangerous situation.