To improve flight safety, DGCA to screen pilots for consumption of drugs

A medical review officer will be appointed to review the results before taking action on the person involved

Pilots and air traffic controllers in India will be screened for consumption of drugs and psychoactive substances as part of a regulatory drive to improve safety. Apart from random screening, the tests will also be carried out prior to hiring and after accidents.

Pilots and cabin crew undergo pre-flight breath analyser test for alcohol. Last year, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) extended the test to cover ground personnel, engineers and air traffic controllers as well. 

To bring Indian regulations in line with global standards, the DGCA has proposed random testing of pilots and air traffic controllers for drugs and opioids.