Air India has terminated the services of the pilot-in-command of a Phuket-Delhi flight after he tested positive for a psychoactive substance, the airline said on Friday.
The action came shortly after the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released its preliminary report into the August 4 incident involving the Phuket-Delhi flight. The report described the pilot's drug use as a serious concern and called upon aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to take appropriate action.
In a statement, Air India said the pilot had tested positive for a psychoactive substance and that his employment had been terminated with immediate effect.
The airline said the decision was in line with its zero-tolerance approach towards violations of safety, fitness and regulatory requirements.
The incident occurred on August 4 when the Airbus A320 operating the Phuket-Delhi route suddenly lost nearly 300 feet in altitude while cruising at 36,000 feet.
According to the AAIB preliminary report, the aircraft, which was carrying 145 people, experienced a near-simultaneous loss of all three hydraulic systems. The incident triggered an autopilot disconnect, followed by a brief stall warning and an altitude upset.
As a result of the sudden altitude change, 24 passengers and crew members were injured, according to the preliminary findings.
The AAIB's findings have also raised concerns regarding flight safety and the fitness of the pilot to operate commercial flights. The regulator DGCA is expected to examine the matter and take further action in accordance with aviation safety regulations.
