The pilot of an Air India flight travelling from Phuket to Delhi has reportedly failed a second dope test following an incident in which the aircraft suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude during turbulence. The pilot has been taken off the roster and remains grounded pending an inquiry, according to sources.

The incident involved Air India flight AI-2379, which was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members when it encountered turbulence during the cruise phase on August 4. The aircraft was flying from Phuket to Delhi when it experienced a sudden drop in altitude of approximately 300 feet. The incident resulted in injuries to several passengers and members of the cabin crew.

At least 13 passengers and four crew members were injured during the turbulence. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said two crew members suffered spinal injuries involving the tailbone and neck. The injuries and sudden altitude loss led to increased scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the flight and the actions of the crew.

Also Read: Questions Remain Over Cause Of Air India Incident Amid Turbulence Speculation

Sources had earlier told NDTV that the pilot tested positive for psychoactive substances during a post-flight screening conducted in Delhi. Following the initial result, another test was conducted after some time. Sources confirmed on Tuesday that the second test also returned a positive result.

The second test specifically indicated that the pilot had consumed marijuana, commonly known as weed. The findings are significant because pilots are required to meet strict medical and safety standards before operating commercial flights. The positive results have therefore become a key part of the inquiry into the incident.

The pilot has been removed from flight duties while the investigation continues. Authorities are expected to examine the test results along with other available information relating to the flight, including the circumstances of the turbulence, the aircraft's sudden altitude loss and the injuries suffered by passengers and crew.

The incident occurred while the aircraft was in its cruise phase, when passengers and crew can be particularly vulnerable to sudden changes in altitude caused by turbulence. Such events can result in people being thrown from their seats, especially when they are not secured by seat belts.

The investigation will determine the circumstances behind the positive test results and whether they had any connection to the flight incident. Further action against the pilot, if warranted, will depend on the findings of the inquiry and the applicable aviation safety regulations.

The August 4 incident has also renewed attention on the importance of aviation safety procedures and mandatory medical screening for flight crew. With the pilot currently off-rostered, authorities are continuing to assess the matter before reaching any final conclusions.

Also Read: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Lost Altitude After All Three Hydraulic Systems Failed