An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi turned into a mid-air nightmare after severe turbulence threw passengers from their seats and injured 17 people. The investigation took a dramatic turn on Tuesday. Laboratory reports confirmed that the flight’s captain tested positive for marijuana during post-flight drug screening.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and civil aviation authorities have grounded both pilots as a comprehensive safety probe unfolds.
Sudden Altitude Drop Leaves Passengers Injured
On August 4, 2026, Air India Flight AI2379 carrying 145 passengers and crew operated its routine route from Phuket to New Delhi. While cruising over eastern India, the Airbus A320 encountered severe turbulence. As a result, the plane suddenly plunged nearly 300 feet in seconds.
The sudden drop sent unbuckled passengers and cabin staff slamming into the ceiling and overhead bins. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes inside the cabin as loose items and food carts tumbled down the aisle.
Despite the severe destabilization, the flight crew managed to stabilize the aircraft. They landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.
Upon landing, emergency medical teams rushed 13 passengers and four crew members to local hospitals for treatment.
Post-Flight Drug Test Triggers Investigation
Following standard post-incident aviation protocols, medical officers subjected both flight crew members to mandatory drug and alcohol screenings. Initial screening results flagged the captain for psychoactive substances, prompting officials to send samples for advanced laboratory confirmation.
Targeted confirmatory tests returned positive results for cannabis (marijuana) metabolites. Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations maintain a strict zero-tolerance stance on pilot impairment.
Under standard rules, a first-time positive test requires immediate suspension. Mandatory de-addiction rehabilitation and clear medical evaluations are also required before any potential return to duty.
Air India acknowledged the ongoing testing procedures and reiterated that it complies fully with all regulatory oversight.
Meanwhile, safety investigators are examining cockpit voice recorders and flight data. They aim to determine if pilot error or delayed reactions worsened the impact of the turbulence.
Curated news reports, in-depth analysis, and special features by India’s Opinion editorial team.
