An Air India pilot is currently undergoing secondary drug testing after a flight from Phuket to New Delhi experienced a sudden altitude drop, leaving 17 passengers and crew members injured. The Airbus A320 plummeted roughly 300 feet on August 4, creating chaos in the cabin as luggage was tossed about and several individuals required hospitalization. Following the safe landing of the aircraft, both pilots were subjected to mandatory psychoactive substance screenings. While the results for one pilot required further verification, officials confirmed that samples have been forwarded to a designated laboratory for a final, conclusive analysis.

In response to the incident, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has officially classified the event as a "Serious Incident" and launched a formal probe. Both pilots involved have been grounded until the investigation concludes and the lab results are finalized. This latest setback adds to a difficult period for the Tata Group-owned airline, which has been struggling with operational challenges and a tarnished reputation following a devastating crash in June 2025. With a new CEO now at the helm, the carrier remains under intense scrutiny as it attempts to manage these persistent safety concerns and execute a comprehensive corporate turnaround.