The AAIB report does not establish any link between the psychoactive substance finding and the altitude upset
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An official preliminary report into the Air India AI2379 altitude-upset incident has flagged multiple issues, including the loss of all three hydraulic systems during the cruise phase, brief disengagement of the autopilot and a ‘non-negative’ psychoactive-substance test involving the pilot-in-command (PIC). The report subsequently triggered the sacking of the PIC.The AAIB report does not establish any link between the psychoactive substance finding and the altitude upset. In addition, the AAIB said that the confirmation of use of a psychoactive substance was a “serious concern” and recommended appropriate action by the DGCA on priority to prevent abuse of psychoactive substances.The investigation into the technical and other aspects of the incident is continuing, and the preliminary information is subject to change.Air India said that, in line with its zero-tolerance approach to violations of safety, fitness or regulatory requirements, the pilot’s employment has been terminated with immediate effect.The Airbus A320 was cruising at 36,000 feet when its flight-control system detected a loss of pressure in the green hydraulic system at 04:02:43 UTC, according to the report. Four seconds later, the system detected losses in the blue and yellow hydraulic systems. The autopilot disengaged at 04:02:48 UTC, followed by a stall warning that lasted two seconds. The co-pilot, who was the pilot flying, initially responded before the PIC took over the controls.The aircraft initially gained 372 feet and subsequently lost 292 feet from its assigned flight level. The hydraulic systems recovered shortly thereafter, followed by the recovery of the flight control surfaces and the return of the aircraft to normal operating condition.The aircraft had 145 people on board, including 137 passengers, six cabin crew members, and two flight crew members. Twenty passengers and four cabin crew members sustained injuries, with four of those injured requiring hospitalisation. The aircraft also suffered damage mainly to the overhead stowage bins and ceiling panels.Importantly, the AAIB noted that the flight crew, despite being apprised of the injuries in the cabin, decided to continue to Delhi instead of diverting to the nearest en route airport. The crew later sought medical priority from Delhi Air Traffic Control.Published on September 4, 2026
