India

After Air India Scare, Govt Eyes Annual Drug Tests for Every Pilot

Published: 25 August 2026 · 1 min read

What Happened

The government is considering a major overhaul of aviation safety rules that would require every pilot to undergo at least one random dope test each year, replacing the current system that tests only 10% of pilots annually. The proposal follows an Air India incident in which the pilot-in-command of a Phuket-Delhi flight later tested positive for marijuana.

Key Takeaways

The move signals tougher oversight of pilot fitness and substance use, with regulators looking to strengthen safety standards and restore passenger confidence in air travel.

Sources

News18, India Today