GUWAHATI: The Pilot-in-Command of an Air India flight that experienced a sudden loss of altitude on its way from Phuket to Delhi has tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory laboratory test, according to reports.
ALSO READ: NorthEast United Beat FC1 3-1 to Reach Durand Cup Quarter-finals at Guwahati's Sarusajai
The development comes days after Air India flight AI2379 suddenly lost around 300 feet in altitude during its cruise phase on August 4, leaving passengers and crew members injured.
Both pilots underwent mandatory psychoactive substance screening following the incident. While the Pilot-in-Command's initial test required further confirmation, his sample was subsequently sent to a designated laboratory. The confirmatory test has now returned positive for marijuana, reports said.
Both pilots have already been removed from the flying roster pending the investigation.
Flight AI2379 was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members when it was travelling from Phuket to Delhi on August 4. The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude of around 300 feet during the flight.
At least 20 passengers and four crew members were injured in the incident. Of them, two crew members suffered spinal injuries near the tailbone and neck, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said.
In a statement issued later on Tuesday, August 11, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has begun investigating the incident.
“AAIB is presently engaged in the systematic collection, preservation and examination of all relevant technical, operational, medical and human-factor evidences,” the ministry said.
The investigation includes examination of the aircraft and its systems, recorded flight data, operational and maintenance records, medical information and interviews with people concerned.
The ministry said all material evidence would be examined in its entirety before any conclusions are drawn.