Air India co-pilot sent back from US after marijuana found in baggage on arrival in San Francisco, airline cites zero tolerance and plans disciplinary action.
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An Air India co-pilot was returned from the United States after authorities allegedly found marijuana in his possession upon arrival in San Francisco. The pilot had travelled from Delhi on April 14 in the passenger cabin as part of the operating staff, positioned to handle the return flight to India.US officials detected the substance in his baggage during checks at the airport, following which he was not permitted to enter the country, The Times of India (TOI) reported citing sources.The airline was informed of the development, and the co-pilot was subsequently sent back to India on the next available flight.Air India has confirmed the incident and stated that one of its crew members was deemed inadmissible under local laws and was returned to India. The airline further reiterated its strict zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of regulations and stated that appropriate disciplinary action would be taken. Also Read: Parliament Special Session Live Updates“One of our crew members travelling from Delhi to San Francisco on April 14, for positioning to operate a subsequent flight, was found to be inadmissible as per local laws and has been sent back to India. Air India maintains zero-tolerance towards any violation of the law and upholds the highest standards of safety, compliance, and professional conduct. Appropriate strict disciplinary action will be taken as per laid down company policies. Ensuring safety, as always, remains Air India’s number one priority,” an AI spokesperson was quoted as saying by TOI.The report said that while the pilot had not consumed marijuana, he was allegedly found carrying it. It is worth noting that while some countries permit the medicinal use of marijuana, such regulations vary widely across jurisdictions.This is not the first instance involving disciplinary action against an Air India pilot on an international flight. Last year in December, an AI captain was removed from duty at Vancouver International Airport after failing two breathalyser tests, indicating alcohol consumption.Authorities had intervened following concerns raised by airport staff, and the airline had to arrange an alternate pilot for the flight. Also Read: US-Iran War Live Updates
