Centre is considering a major change to drug-testing rules for pilots, with every pilot potentially required to undergo a random dope test at least once every year.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said on Tuesday that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is reviewing the existing framework for testing flight crew for psychoactive substances.

Under current regulations, random testing covers around 10% of the total pilot population each year. The proposed system could increase this coverage to 100%, ensuring that every pilot is tested at least once annually while keeping the timing unpredictable.

The proposal is still under consideration, with authorities assessing its potential impact on aviation safety as well as airline operations.

DGCA Reviewing Annual Testing Proposal

Naidu said the government is examining different options to strengthen the existing system. One proposal under discussion would require every pilot to undergo a test once during the year, with the exact timing decided randomly.

Officials are consulting airlines and other stakeholders before making a final decision. Authorities want to ensure that stronger testing requirements improve passenger safety without creating major operational difficulties for airlines.

The proposal comes amid increased scrutiny of pilot fitness following the Air India Phuket-Delhi flight incident earlier this month.

Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Incident

Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320neo operating from Phuket to Delhi, experienced a sudden loss of around 300 feet of altitude while cruising on August 4.

The aircraft later stabilized and landed safely in Delhi. However, the incident resulted in injuries to 24 people, including 20 passengers and four crew members, according to the information provided.

Both pilots underwent post-flight testing for psychoactive substances. The pilot-in-command's initial test required confirmatory analysis, and a subsequent laboratory test returned positive for marijuana.

Following the result, the DGCA removed both pilots from the duty roster while the investigation and prescribed procedures continued.

Incident Raises Questions Over Existing Rules

The case has prompted questions about whether testing only a portion of India's pilot population each year is sufficient to detect substance use and ensure that flight crew are fit to operate aircraft.

Under the proposed approach, every pilot would face at least one random test annually. Authorities believe unpredictable testing could provide a stronger safety mechanism while maintaining the random nature of the process.

However, the government has not yet finalized the proposed rules.

Read more: IndiGo Vadodara-Delhi Flight Power Failure Leaves Passengers Sweating in Darkness

Pilot's Reported Sleep Difficulties Under Investigation

The investigation has also examined reports about the pilot's sleep difficulties and medication history.

According to information cited in reports, the pilot told investigators that he had experienced sleep-related problems because of personal circumstances and had been prescribed medication by a family doctor.

Authorities are examining these details separately from the positive marijuana test. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the flight.

AAIB Probe Continues

Naidu said the AAIB is handling the investigation and that the aircraft's data recorder remains intact and available to investigators.

The recorder is expected to provide important information about the aircraft's operation and events during the flight.

A preliminary report could emerge after investigators complete their initial examination, although the final findings will depend on the ongoing probe.

Aviation Safety Rules Under Review

Alongside the investigation, the DGCA is consulting stakeholders on regulations governing psychoactive substance use among pilots.

The government is considering several approaches rather than immediately introducing universal annual testing. Officials are expected to assess the safety benefits, testing capacity and operational impact before deciding on the final framework.

If approved, annual random testing for the entire pilot population would represent a significant expansion of India's existing aviation safety measures.