The testing campaign comes after a pilot of the airline tested positive for consumption of psychoactive substances.
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Tata Group-promoted Air India Group will undertake mandatory screening of all pilots for substances or medications not permitted under prevailing regulations, according to an internal communication to pilots.As per the communication, which was reviewed by businessline, the testing exercise began on Thursday (August 13, 2026).Notably, the testing campaign comes after a pilot of the airline tested positive for consumption of psychoactive substances.However, it has not yet been officially verified which recreational drug or medication the pilot tested positive for.As per the airline, the screening would be conducted concurrent with training at its Gurugram Academy, post-flight at Flight Briefing Centres and Air India offices, or at locations provided by respective bases.Full ComplianceThe communication said the initiative has been undertaken to uphold safety and professionalism and provide reassurance to passengers, stakeholders and the wider community.Notably, Air India said it already fully complies with regulatory requirements prescribed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).These regulations, the airline said, are similar to those followed in other major aviation jurisdictions, including Europe and the United States.“We nevertheless now feel that it is important to go further. Accordingly, we have decided to undertake a full screening of all Group pilots for any substances or medications that are not permitted under prevailing regulations,” the airline said.According to the communication, the testing will be mandatory for all Group pilots.Public TrustThe airline said the decision followed concerns and feedback shared by pilots, with the communication noting that several pilots had recently reached out to express similar sentiments about protecting the trust placed in Air India.Meanwhile, Air India recalled its role as the flag bearer of Indian aviation and said the professionalism, skills and commitment to safety of its pilots and other employees had earned the trust of millions of passengers and the wider community.“This trust is our most important asset, and it is vital that we do all possible to protect and sustain it,” the airline said.Major IncidentThe initiative comes as Air India faces scrutiny following the August 4 Phuket-Delhi flight incident involving an Airbus A320neo, which suffered a sudden altitude variation during cruise before stabilising and landing safely in Delhi.The role of the pilot being in an alleged intoxicated state is a key aspect of the investigation.Consequently, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is investigating the occurrence, while the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is examining the regulatory aspects.Besides, Air India said the new screening initiative goes beyond existing regulatory requirements.“This initiative, which goes beyond regulatory requirements, reflects our determination to uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism, and to provide reassurance to our passengers, stakeholders and the community at large,” the airline said.Published on August 13, 2026
