Air India Phuket-Delhi flight pilot faces ‘confirmatory analysis’ as AAIB probes turbulence
New Delhi: The Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has started an investigation into the turbulence incident involving an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi on August 4, the civil aviation ministry said on Sunday.
“The occurrence has been classified as a serious incident and is under investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB),” the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry had earlier said that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was investigating the matter.
Aircraft lost altitude
The incident involved Air India flight AI 2379, operated with an Airbus A320 aircraft registered as VT-EXO. The aircraft suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude during its cruise. It later stabilised and landed safely at Delhi airport.
The flight carried 137 passengers, including three infants. Eight crew members, comprising two pilots and six cabin crew members, were also on board. A few passengers and cabin crew members suffered injuries during the incident.
Pilot faces confirmation test
Both pilots underwent mandatory psychoactive substance screening under the standard procedures followed after such an incident.
“As part of the Standard Operating Procedures following such an occurrence, both flight crew members underwent the prescribed psychoactive substance screening test. The screening test in respect of the 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,” the government said.
An aviation industry expert said the initial screening result does not confirm drug use. “The first test that takes around three hours, says ‘non-negative’ and not positive. Then it’s sent for a more comprehensive and detailed test which takes around three days,” the expert said.
Pilots taken off roster
The DGCA has removed both pilots from duty until the investigation and prescribed procedures conclude. “Pending investigation and completion of the prescribed process, both flight crew members have been taken off roster by the DGCA. Further action, as appropriate, will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation and confirmatory test results,” the government said.
Injured crew hospitalised
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said on Wednesday that two crew members who suffered spinal injuries remained admitted to Fortis Hospital. The ministry said it and the DGCA remain committed to aviation safety. It added that officials would thoroughly investigate the incident and take action under the prescribed regulations and procedures.