A pilot of the Air India flight that experienced severe turbulence and a sudden drop in altitude during its journey from Phuket to New Delhi has reportedly tested positive for drugs, sources told India Today on Sunday. Both pilots involved in the incident have been temporarily suspended pending an investigation into the loss of altitude. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the country's top aviation watchdog, is currently probing the matter, and the results will determine whether further investigation by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is necessary. At least 17 people, including four cabin crew members, were injured during the August 5 incident on Air India A320 flight AI2379. The Civil Aviation Minister confirmed that the turbulence lasted around five minutes, and some crew members sustained spinal injuries near the tailbone and neck. With 137 passengers and eight crew members onboard, this incident has raised concerns about drug use among pilots and safety protocols in commercial aviation. Air India has stated that it will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities as the investigation continues.