An RTI inquiry has revealed a worrying trend in Indian aviation—despite strict regulations laid out by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the number of pilots reporting to duty under the influence of alcohol or psychoactive substances has doubled over the past five years.
According to the RTI response, between 2020 and 2024, a total of 724 crew members, including pilots and cabin crew, tested positive for intoxicants during mandatory pre-flight and post-flight tests conducted at airports across the country. What is more alarming is the sharp rise in such cases among pilots. In 2020, only 26 pilots were found under the influence, while the number increased to 54 in 2024. This marks a twofold increase in five years.
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Breakdown of Positive Cases from 2020 to 2024:
DGCA Guidelines: Repeat Offenders Risk Losing License
DGCA guidelines stipulate that if a pilot or cabin crew member tests positive within 12 hours of reporting for duty or during flight, it is considered a serious offense. A first-time offender faces suspension, while a repeat offender risks license cancellation. While the DGCA did not disclose the names of the airlines or individuals involved, the data suggests lapses in internal monitoring systems and enforcement. The matter came to light following a Right to Information (RTI) application filed by aviation researcher Chandrashekhar Gaur. The RTI response revealed that even after the implementation of DGCA’s strict rules, pilots continued to show up under the influence. Notably, 2021—despite being a pandemic year—was an exception, showing relatively fewer violations.
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In 2024, 163 cabin crew members were tested, of which 54 pilots were found intoxicated. This figure is the highest in the five-year period and suggests a continuing trend that endangers passenger safety.
Alarming Case in 2022
In 2022, nine pilots were suspended for showing up under the influence. This prompted greater scrutiny and stricter compliance from airlines. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), in 2024 alone, 16.3 crore passengers flew in India, and 86.4% of scheduled flights were on time. However, experts argue that the presence of intoxicated crew members—no matter how small the number—poses a serious threat to flight safety and undermines public trust.
DGCA Urges Airlines to Tighten Controls
In response to the findings, DGCA Director-General Suresh Joshi emphasized, “As part of civil aviation requirements, airlines must conduct random alcohol and substance tests. Strict action will be taken against those found violating the rules.”