New Delhi, August 26: A high-level meeting was held to discuss necessary changes to the Moka drug testing system and Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) aimed at detecting the presence of psychoactive drugs (such as marijuana, amphetamines, cocaine, and opiates) in pilots and crew members. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is being informed about discussions with airlines.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu chaired the meeting, which included senior aviation officials and stakeholders. Participants comprised the Director General, DGCA, Moka Secretary, and representatives from airline operators. Sources indicate that discussions are ongoing with stakeholders, particularly airline operators.
The meeting considered various aspects related to the proposal for 100 percent drug testing of all pilots once a year. This is a significant step, as these suggestions may be included when CAR is redrafted.
It is noteworthy that the DGCA has the authority to redraft the Civil Aviation Requirements, which includes a framework for drug testing or psychoactive substance testing for pilots.
Recently, Minister Naidu stated, “The DGCA is considering annual drug testing for every pilot. Currently, the regulation allows for testing 10 percent of the entire pilot network.”
He further mentioned, “The regulator is assessing the safety benefits and operational impacts of expanding the scope of testing before making any final decisions.”
This proposal emerged following a recent incident involving Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight, which has prompted a thorough review of regulations concerning drug use among pilots. Naidu emphasized that discussions on strengthening the regulations are separate from the ongoing investigation into the incident.
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