DIVYA DELHI : Air India has dismissed a pilot associated with a Phuket-Delhi flight after the crew member tested positive for a psychoactive substance during a mandatory medical screening, according to reports. The action comes as airlines continue to maintain strict safety standards for flight crew, with pilots required to undergo medical and substance-abuse testing under aviation regulations. A positive test can trigger disciplinary proceedings and may affect a pilot’s eligibility to operate commercial flights. The pilot’s dismissal highlights the stringent measures followed by airlines to ensure that cockpit crew members are fit to fly and do not operate aircraft under the influence of prohibited substances. Such procedures are intended to safeguard passengers, crew and aviation operations. The incident has also brought renewed attention to the importance of compliance with substance-testing requirements in the aviation sector. Airlines and aviation authorities routinely monitor crew members through medical examinations and testing protocols. Air India has not been reported to have disclosed further details about the specific substance detected or the circumstances surrounding the test. The case is expected to be handled in accordance with applicable aviation safety and employment regulations.
