Air India Begins Voluntary Testing Programme For All Pilots

Air India has voluntarily begun a testing programme covering all its pilots, going beyond existing regulatory requirements as part of its focus on safety and professional standards.

The airline said the testing process is currently underway and urged the media and other stakeholders to avoid speculation or reporting based on unverified information.

Air India said any assessment should wait until the testing process is complete and verified facts are available.

The airline said the initiative reflects its commitment to maintaining high safety and professional standards.

The announcement comes amid an expanded pilot screening programme introduced after a recent in-flight incident involving a Phuket-Delhi service.

Earlier this week, reports said two more Air India pilots had failed preliminary drug tests conducted as part of the screening programme.

The final results are awaited, and the airline has reportedly removed both pilots from duty pending confirmation.

The airline introduced drug testing for all pilots under a new standard operating procedure after the pilot-in-command of a Phuket-Delhi flight allegedly failed two urine tests following the aircraft’s landing.

Reports said that marijuana was detected in his system.

More than 300 Air India pilots have reportedly undergone testing so far. Final drug test results generally take between 24 and 48 hours to process.

Air India said stakeholders should wait for verified results before drawing conclusions about the ongoing testing process.

The airline’s latest move highlights its efforts to strengthen safety procedures and maintain professional standards across its pilot workforce.

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