Turbulence-hit AI flight pilot's dope test 'not negative, sent for confirmatory test'

NEW DELHI: The pilots of Air India’s Aug 4 turbulence-hit Phuket-Delhi flight were subjected to psychoactive substance (dope) screening test on arrival at the destination. The pilot-in-command or captain’s screening test report was not negative and has been sent for confirmatory tests, the aviation ministry said on Sunday. The ministry has classified the incident as a serious one which will now be probed by Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). “Further action, as appropriate, will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation and confirmatory test results,” govt said.Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) rules stipulate that “in case the screening test is non-negative, the employee shall be immediately removed from the safety sensitive duty till a confirmatory report is received.