DGCA directs airlines to conduct one-time drug tests for all pilots after Air India incident
India’s aviation regulator has asked airlines to complete one-time drug testing of all pilots by July next year, according to reports, after an Air India A320 altitude-deviation incident. Broader drug-testing rule amendments are expected in draft form by month-end.
What happened
India's DGCA has directed airlines to conduct one-time drug tests for all pilots following an Air India incident. The government plans broader drug-testing rule
Key facts
- One-time drug test for all pilots by July next year
- Air India A320 lost about 300 feet in altitude
- Aircraft landed in India on August 4
- Draft rule amendments expected by end of this month
Why this matters
Any aviation deal or partnership involving Indian carriers should diligence pilot-testing readiness, regulatory controls and the potential cost of forthcoming drug-testing rule changes.