Drug-positive pilot investigated after terrifying mid-air altitude drop
Investigations into Air India flight A12379 from Phuket to Delhi reveal a shocking detail about the pilot in command. Medical reports confirm the captain tested positive for marijuana following a terrifying mid-air altitude plunge over Odisha. This flight path frequently experiences turbulent weather patterns during seasonal transitions, making flying conditions over the eastern Indian state particularly sensitive. However, mechanical failures and crew impairment triggered this specific crisis. Hydraulic failures initially plagued the Airbus A320 during its cruise at flight level 360. Indicators signaled a loss of the green hydraulic system, followed quickly by the blue and yellow systems. These three systems supply critical power at 3000 psi to the aircraft. The co-pilot attempted to manage the escalating situation before the main captain took control. During this handover, the aircraft suddenly climbed 372 feet before violently plunging 292 feet.
Cabin chaos leaves dozens injured
Severe forces damaged interior ceiling panels and overhead stowage bins. Emergency teams recorded injuries among 20 passengers and four crew members. The aircraft carried 145 individuals in total, including 137 passengers with three infants, six cabin crew, and two flight crew. The plane eventually recovered its hydraulic systems and landed safely in Delhi. Investigators later classified the terrifying ordeal as an official accident due to the extent of physical injuries on board.
Medical personnel at the Delhi airport conducted mandatory post-flight screenings since the flight originated overseas. While standard breath-analyzer tests showed satisfactory results, psychoactive substance detection kits flagged the captain. Subsequent blood tests verified the presence of marijuana in his system, while the co-pilot cleared all screenings. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau recently published a preliminary report expressing deep concern. Officials recommend the Directorate General of Civil Aviation execute immediate disciplinary actions against the captain.
