The pilot who was operating an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi, during which several passengers and crew members were injured following a sudden loss of altitude, has reportedly returned a positive result in a second drug test, sources said.

Air India flight AI-2379 was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members when it encountered turbulence on August 4 during its journey from Phuket to Delhi. The aircraft, an Airbus A320neo, reportedly dropped around 300 feet while cruising, resulting in what is described as a negative-G situation.

At least 20 passengers and four members of the cabin crew were injured. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said two crew members suffered injuries around the neck and tailbone.

Pilot Reportedly Tests Positive Twice

According to sources, the pilot underwent a mandatory post-flight screening after the aircraft landed in Delhi. The initial test reportedly detected psychoactive substances.

A second screening was subsequently conducted, and sources said this test also returned a positive result. The substance was reportedly identified as marijuana.

Both pilots have since been removed from flight duty pending the completion of the inquiry.

Pilot Was Reportedly Away From Seat During Altitude Loss

Sources said the co-pilot was in control of the aircraft when the sudden descent occurred, while the pilot-in-command was reportedly not seated in the cockpit seat at that moment.

The precise reason for the altitude loss has not yet been established. Investigators are examining whether pilot input, a technical problem or a possible hydraulic malfunction could have contributed to the incident.

The sudden movement created a negative-G environment inside the aircraft. People and loose objects in the cabin were reportedly lifted from their seats, with passengers and crew members who were not restrained sustaining injuries.

AAIB Begins Detailed Probe

The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has taken up the investigation.

Officials said investigators are examining a wide range of evidence, including the aircraft and its systems, recorded flight data, operational and maintenance documents, medical information and statements from people connected with the incident.

The ministry stressed that investigators would assess the evidence collectively and cautioned against drawing conclusions from any single piece of information while the inquiry remains underway.

It said the investigation is intended to establish what happened, identify the factors that contributed to the incident and recommend measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Aviation Safety Under Focus

Air India's outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson met senior officials from the Civil Aviation Ministry on Tuesday to discuss the incident.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the government was treating the matter with seriousness and reiterated that passenger safety remains its highest priority.

He said there could be no compromise on aviation safety and that responsibility extends across the regulator, airlines and other stakeholders.

The investigation will now determine the circumstances surrounding the sudden altitude loss and whether any operational, technical or human factors played a role.