Air India Co-Pilot Deported From US After Ganja Found In His Bag

Last Updated:April 17, 2026, 18:43 IST

Air India co pilot deported from US after marijuana found in baggage, barred from duty, airline cites zero tolerance and alerts DGCA, disciplinary action expected

An Air India co-pilot was deported from the United States after authorities allegedly found marijuana in his baggage during a routine check, officials said.

The pilot had travelled to the US as part of the operating crew on a Delhi–San Francisco flight and was scheduled to operate the return leg. However, he was stopped by US authorities after the suspected substance was detected in his bag.

Following the discovery, the co-pilot was not allowed to continue duty and was deported back to India. The incident took place earlier this week.

Air India has been informed about the matter, and further action is expected as per internal protocols and regulations.

The case has raised concerns over compliance with international aviation and security norms, especially for crew members on active duty. Authorities are expected to carry out further inquiries into the incident.

Air India Issues Clarification

In a statement, an Air India spokesperson said, “One of our crew members travelling from Delhi to San Francisco for positioning to operate a subsequent flight was found to be inadmissible as per local laws and has been sent back to India."

Reiterating its strict stance on compliance, Air India spokesperson said, “ The airline maintains zero tolerance towards any violation of the law" and follows the highest standards of safety and professional conduct. It also confirmed that appropriate disciplinary action will be taken in line with company policies. Air India did not reveal the identity and other details of pilot who allegedly carried ganja to the air plane.

Air India has informed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) about the incident. However, the report said that the co-pilot had not consumed marijuana but was allegedly found carrying it.

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