Air India Express suspends eight crew members over delayed alcohol testing

Air India Express has suspended eight crew members—four pilots and four cabin crew—for three months following a violation of mandatory post-flight alcohol testing protocols.

The incident occurred on August 2 after flight AX-192, arriving from Dubai, landed at Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport in Amritsar. According to Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations, crew members on international flights must undergo a breathalyzer test within two hours of landing in India.

The crew reportedly missed this window by 35 minutes, completing the test two hours and 35 minutes after arrival. While all eight members tested negative for alcohol, the delay constituted a regulatory lapse. Sources indicate the delay occurred because the crew checked into their allotted hotel due to a crew member being unwell, or because they forgot the requirement amidst post-flight formalities. Air India Express reported the violation to the DGCA and implemented the suspensions in accordance with aviation rules.