Air India Announces Voluntary Drug Testing for All Pilots After Phuket Incident

Air India has announced that it will initiate voluntary drug testing for its entire pilot community, a move that follows a recent mid-air hydraulic failure on a Phuket-bound flight and the subsequent drug test findings involving the crew.

The airline stated that the decision reflects its commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance. It has also pledged complete support to the ongoing technical and medical inquiries into the incident.

The development comes as authorities examine both the mechanical failure that forced the aircraft to divert and the circumstances surrounding the crew's medical screening results. Air India's voluntary testing programme is seen as a proactive step to reinforce safety protocols across its operations.

While the airline has not disclosed the number of pilots involved or a timeline for the testing drive, it has assured full cooperation with investigators. The company emphasised that the initiative is part of a broader effort to maintain the highest standards of operational safety and crew fitness.