Key facts
- Air India will test all pilots for banned substances.
- The testing includes pilots at Air India Express.
- The policy change follows an incident involving a senior pilot.
- The senior pilot reportedly tested positive for marijuana.
- The incident occurred after a flight lost altitude.
- Air India states the testing goes beyond regulatory requirements.
- The airline aims to uphold safety standards.
Air India is initiating immediate and comprehensive testing for all its pilots, encompassing those employed by its budget carrier Air India Express, to screen for banned substances. This new policy comes in the wake of an incident involving a senior pilot who reportedly tested positive for marijuana. The incident occurred after a flight where the aircraft reportedly lost altitude. The airline has stated that this proactive measure extends beyond the current regulatory requirements. Air India's stated objective is to uphold the highest safety standards for its operations and passengers. The expanded testing protocol aims to ensure the well-being and safety of all individuals on board its flights by addressing potential substance abuse among its flight crew.