Both pilots of the Delhi-bound Air India flight from Phuket that experienced a sudden loss of altitude on August 4 have been taken off roster by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) pending an investigation.
According to a press release by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, both pilots underwent the prescribed psychoactive substance screening test.
“The screening test in respect of the Pilot-in-Command (PIC) indicated a result requiring confirmatory testing. Samples have accordingly been sent to the designated laboratory for confirmatory analysis, and the final report is awaited. Pending investigation and completion of the prescribed process, both flight crew members have been taken off the roster by the DGCA,” the ministry said.
The occurrence has been classified as a “serious incident” and is being investigated by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), it added.
The Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320 operating from Phuket to Delhi, experienced a sudden loss of altitude of approximately 300 feet during the flight on Tuesday. The aircraft was subsequently stabilised and landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi.
The sudden drop in altitude reportedly resulted in injuries to some passengers and cabin crew members.
The aircraft was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, and eight crew members comprising two pilots and six cabin crew.
The ministry said further action would be taken after the completion of the investigation and receipt of the confirmatory test report.
