The pilot-in-command of an Air India flight operating from Phuket to Delhi has reportedly tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory drug test, days after the aircraft suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude during the flight, according to sources. 

The incident involved Air India flight AI2379 on August 4, 2026. The Airbus A320neo was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members when it experienced a sudden altitude loss while flying over Odisha. The aircraft subsequently landed safely in Delhi. Reports said 13 passengers and four crew members were injured during the incident. 

Following the incident, both pilots underwent mandatory screening for psychoactive substances. The captain's initial test returned a “non-negative” result, prompting authorities to send the sample for confirmatory laboratory testing. The confirmatory test has now reportedly detected marijuana. 

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has taken the matter seriously, while the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is investigating the circumstances surrounding the sudden altitude loss. Both pilots were reportedly removed from flying duties pending the investigation. 

The development has raised fresh questions about cockpit safety, pilot screening procedures and compliance with aviation regulations. However, the positive drug test alone does not establish that the pilot was under the influence of marijuana while operating the flight; the investigation will need to establish the circumstances and whether the test result was connected to the incident.

Air India has been asked to provide clarification, while aviation authorities continue to examine the flight's operations and the circumstances that led to the sudden loss of altitude.