Mid-Air Turbulence Triggers Probe: Air India Pilot Fails Dope Test
DGCA investigating incident after aircraft reportedly suffered sudden loss of altitude during flight
One of the pilots operating an Air India flight from Phuket to New Delhi has reportedly failed a dope test following a turbulence-related incident, sources told India Today on Sunday.
The flight encountered severe turbulence while travelling from Phuket to Delhi, with the aircraft experiencing a sudden loss of altitude during the incident.
According to sources, both pilots have been removed from flying duties pending the completion of the investigation into the incident.
The matter is currently being investigated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation safety regulator. Officials are examining the circumstances surrounding the sudden change in the aircraft’s altitude and the actions of the flight crew.
A source in the Ministry of Civil Aviation said that the outcome of the DGCA inquiry will determine whether the incident requires a further investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
The reported failure of the dope test by one of the pilots is expected to form part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities will examine all relevant factors before determining whether any further action is required.
The incident has raised fresh questions about flight safety, crew fitness and aviation protocols, particularly in situations involving severe turbulence.
The investigation is still underway, and officials are yet to release a detailed account of the incident or announce any final findings.
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