India explores year-round random drug testing for all commercial pilots

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is in discussions with industry stakeholders to strengthen drug-testing protocols for pilots, Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu announced Tuesday. The move would represent a significant expansion of existing procedures that currently require drug tests for only 10 percent of the pilot workforce on a random basis.

"One of our proposals is that every pilot should undergo drug testing at random intervals throughout the year," Naidu said, adding that the DGCA is consulting with all stakeholders on implementation of the enhanced standards.

The push for stricter testing comes after an Air India captain operating a Phuket-Delhi flight tested positive for marijuana following a sudden altitude loss incident. The case has intensified scrutiny on safety protocols within India's aviation sector.

Currently, India's regulations mandate random drug testing covering 10 percent of the pilot population. Under the proposed framework, all commercial pilots would be subject to psychoactive substance screening on an unannounced basis throughout the calendar year. The DGCA is expected to finalize the new guidelines following feedback from airlines, pilot unions, and other aviation stakeholders.