The Pilot-in-Command of Air India flight AI2379 has reportedly tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory laboratory test, sources said Tuesday, following the serious turbulence incident on the Phuket–Delhi route on August 4.
The aircraft reportedly experienced a sudden loss of around 300 feet in altitude, leaving at least 17 passengers and crew members injured during the flight. Both pilots underwent mandatory psychoactive-substance screening after landing in Delhi.
While the co-pilot’s screening reportedly did not raise concerns, the Pilot-in-Command’s initial test returned a result requiring further analysis. His sample was subsequently sent to a designated laboratory, where the confirmatory test reportedly returned positive.
Both pilots had already been removed from the flying roster pending the completion of the investigation.
Separately, reports have indicated that the aircraft experienced multiple technical issues during the flight, including three reported hydraulic-system failures. However, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) investigation remains ongoing, and the hydraulic issues have not been officially established as the cause of the sudden altitude loss.