India Probes Air India Captain After 300-Foot Drop Injures 24, Awaits Drug Test Confirmation
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Aug 12
India Probes Air India Captain After 300-Foot Drop Injures 24, Awaits Drug Test Confirmation
3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Aug 12
Summary
24 people were injured after an Air India Airbus A320 suddenly dropped about 300 feet shortly after departing Phuket for New Delhi on Aug. 4, though the jet later stabilized and landed safely.
India's aviation ministry said the captain's initial psychoactive-substance screening required laboratory confirmation, and both pilots have been removed from flying duties pending the inquiry.
The probe intensified after local media reported the captain may have tested positive for marijuana in follow-up testing; officials said any drug-screen details will appear in the final investigation report.
India's AAIB is examining flight data, aircraft systems, maintenance and operational records, medical information and crew interviews, with France's BEA and Airbus assisting under international rules.
The incident adds to pressure on Air India as it tries to rebuild its reputation after a 2025 crash near Ahmedabad killed 241 of 242 people onboard and 19 on the ground.