The captain of Air India flight AI2379 tested positive for marijuana in a follow-up laboratory analysis, according to sources on Tuesday. This came days after the Phuket to Delhi service dropped roughly 300 feet in altitude, injuring at least 17 passengers and crew. Both pilots completed required psychoactive substance tests after the August 4 event. The captain’s first sample needed verification, so it went to a specialized lab. The second result confirmed marijuana presence. Both pilots have been removed from flight duties while the inquiry continues. The Airbus A320, registered VT-EXO, lost about 300 feet during cruise on the Phuket-Delhi leg. It carried 137 passengers, including three infants, and eight crew. At least 17 people, four of them cabin staff, sustained injuries. The civil aviation minister noted turbulence lasted about five minutes, causing some spinal and neck harm. The plane stabilized and landed normally in Delhi. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation labeled it a serious incident, prompting the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau to open a probe. Flight data and cockpit voice recorders were secured. Investigators are also reviewing reports of technical issues, including autopilot disconnection, triple hydraulic problems, and other glitches. The co-pilot reportedly assumed manual control after the autopilot disengaged. A flight-control stall warning appeared, and several indicators briefly failed. Probes will determine links between technical faults, turbulence, and the altitude loss. Airbus and France’s BEA are expected to support the inquiry. The confirmatory test result arrives amid increased government oversight of Air India. Outgoing chief executive Campbell Wilson met ministry officials on Tuesday to discuss the incident and wider safety matters. The civil aviation minister, secretary, and senior DGCA staff attended. Air India stated it is assisting investigators.
