Air India has terminated the services of the Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of its Phuket-Delhi flight AI2379 after he tested positive for a psychoactive substance. The action follows the findings of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) report and comes as part of the airline's stated zero-tolerance policy on safety and regulatory violations.
The action comes exactly a month after the Phuket-Delhi flight suddenly lost around 300 feet in altitude and left 24 passengers and crew members injured on August 4.
In a statement, Air India said safety remains its "highest priority" and confirmed that the pilot had tested positive for a psychoactive substance.
The airline said the pilot's employment was terminated with immediate effect in line with its policy on violations involving safety, fitness and regulatory requirements.
"Safety remains Air India's highest priority. The Pilot-in-Command of the Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for a psychoactive substance. In line with Air India's zero-tolerance approach to violation of safety, fitness or regulatory requirements, the pilot's employment has been terminated with immediate effect," the commercial airline said in a post on X.
The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of aviation safety and crew fitness standards. Airlines are required to ensure that pilots are medically and operationally fit to perform their duties. Air India's decision underscores the seriousness with which violations involving psychoactive substances are treated.