IndiaSecurity and defence
India considers year-round random drug tests for all commercial pilots
The Indian government is exploring mandatory year-round random drug tests for all commercial pilots to strengthen aviation safety. The DGCA is consulting stakeholders on the proposal.
The Civil Aviation Ministry is considering a proposal to conduct psychoactive substance tests for all commercial pilots on a random basis throughout the year. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said on August 25, 2026, that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is holding discussions with stakeholders on further strengthening drug-testing standards for pilots. Under current rules, only 10% of the pilot network undergoes testing. The minister indicated that the ministry's view is that every pilot should be tested at random times during the year, but added that the final decision depends on stakeholder responses. The proposal follows concerns about possible substance use by pilots.
IndiaSecurity and defence
India considers year-round random drug tests for all commercial pilots
The Indian government is exploring mandatory year-round random drug tests for all commercial pilots to strengthen aviation safety. The DGCA is consulting stakeholders on the proposal.
The Civil Aviation Ministry is considering a proposal to conduct psychoactive substance tests for all commercial pilots on a random basis throughout the year. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said on August 25, 2026, that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is holding discussions with stakeholders on further strengthening drug-testing standards for pilots. Under current rules, only 10% of the pilot network undergoes testing. The minister indicated that the ministry's view is that every pilot should be tested at random times during the year, but added that the final decision depends on stakeholder responses. The proposal follows concerns about possible substance use by pilots.