NEW DELHI: The captain of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi has tested positive for marijuana.
A source familiar with the matter confirmed the result of the captain’s confirmatory drug test.
The test followed a flight incident last week. The Airbus A320neo suddenly lost about 300 feet in altitude during the journey.
Air India Flight Lost 300 Feet
The incident happened while the aircraft flew over Odisha on its way to Delhi.
Indian authorities described the event as a “momentary altitude variation.”
The aircraft later landed safely in Delhi.
The flight carried 137 passengers and eight crew members. The incident injured 13 passengers and four crew members.
Captain’s Drug Test Shows Marijuana
The Ministry of Civil Aviation said the captain first underwent a screening test on Sunday.
That test showed a result that required further laboratory checks.
The latest confirmatory test has now reportedly shown marijuana in the captain’s system.
Officials will assess the result as part of the wider investigation.
The test could also affect the captain’s ability to fly, depending on the findings of the authorities.
Aviation Ministry Summons Air India CEO
India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation summoned Air India CEO Campbell Wilson on Tuesday.
The ministry sought an update on the investigation into the flight incident.
Wilson later told news channels that Air India had briefed the ministry about the case.
Air India and the ministry did not respond to requests for comment.
Investigation Into Air India Flight Continues
Indian authorities launched an investigation after the aircraft lost altitude during the flight.
Air India had earlier said it had not received the captain’s confirmatory test result.
Investigators will now examine the drug-test result along with other evidence.
They will also determine whether the test result played any role in the flight incident.
Air India is majority-owned by the Tata Group. Singapore Airlines owns about 25% of the airline.
Authorities have yet to announce any final findings or regulatory action against the captain.
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