New Delhi, Aug. 13: Air India has introduced mandatory screening of all pilots across the airline group for substances and medications prohibited under aviation regulations, expanding its safety protocols beyond existing regulatory requirements in a move aimed at reinforcing operational safety and strengthening public confidence.
According to sources, the Tata Group-owned airline commenced the screening programme on August 13. A communication issued to pilots and reviewed by IANS states that the mandatory exercise applies to all pilots within the Air India group.
In the communication, the airline said its reputation has long been built on the professionalism, skill and commitment to safety demonstrated by its pilots and employees. It added that maintaining public trust remains one of the organisation’s highest priorities.
Air India also acknowledged that many pilots had recently reached out to the management expressing similar concerns regarding safety and professional standards.
The airline stated that it already complies with all requirements prescribed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), noting that these regulations are broadly aligned with aviation practices followed in major international markets, including Europe and the United States.
Despite meeting the prescribed regulatory standards, Air India said it had decided to adopt an additional safety measure by conducting comprehensive screening of all group pilots for substances or medications that are not permitted under prevailing aviation regulations.
According to the communication, the screening programme will be compulsory and will be conducted at multiple locations. Testing will take place alongside training sessions at the Gurugram Academy, after flight duties at Flight Briefing Centres, at Air India offices and at designated facilities across pilots’ operating bases.
The airline described the initiative as a proactive step that exceeds current regulatory obligations. It said the programme reflects its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety and professionalism while providing reassurance to passengers, stakeholders and the wider community.
Pilots have also been advised to contact their respective chief pilots or base managers if they require clarification regarding any aspect of the screening process.
According to the information available, the decision follows an incident involving an Air India flight operating from Phuket to Delhi that experienced a sudden loss of altitude last week. The airline initiated the screening programme after it emerged that the pilot in command of that flight had been taking medication for sleep difficulty.
The mandatory screening programme marks an additional layer of safety oversight as Air India strengthens internal procedures while continuing to comply with existing DGCA regulations.
