IndiGo Tests 20% of Pilots Annually for Substance Abuse, Exceeding DGCA Norms

IndiGo currently tests 20 percent of its pilots annually for substance abuse, according to Chief Executive Officer Willie Walsh. Speaking at the company's annual general meeting on Thursday, Walsh stated that the current testing rate exceeds the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) prescribed limit, which requires airlines to randomly test at least 10 percent of their pilots each year.

Responding to shareholder questions, Walsh noted that the carrier maintains a fitness for duty framework covering alcohol, substance abuse, fatigue, and mental well-being. Substance testing has been a requirement at induction since 2015 for all new employees, followed by random testing thereafter.

Pilot substance abuse has drawn increased attention following a recent incident where an Air India pilot tested positive for marijuana consumption, prompting Air India to test all of its pilots and the DGCA to work on tighter anti-doping regulations.

During the AGM, IndiGo management also addressed questions concerning flight disruptions, the financial loss reported in the last financial year, and long-haul network plans. Walsh, who took over as CEO earlier this month, stated that the airline has implemented remedial measures to prevent disruptions similar to those witnessed last December. These measures include strengthened manpower planning and roster processes, improved oversight, predictive dashboards, early warning systems, and a newly established disruption management group.

IndiGo reported a 5 percent increase in revenue from operations to over ₹84,000 crore, but swung to a ₹2,393 crore net loss in FY26 due to rupee depreciation. The airline continues to navigate headwinds including supply chain disruptions, increased fuel prices, and airspace closures.

Looking ahead, Walsh stated that cost control remains a primary focus area, and the airline aims to ensure profitable operations on long-haul routes with the introduction of Airbus A350 aircraft starting in 2028. The airline will also continue investing in hiring, training, and capability building to support its growth while maintaining operational reliability and service standards.

"IndiGo's proactive approach to exceeding regulatory testing standards highlights the critical importance of operational safety and compliance in the aviation sector. In capital-intensive businesses facing macroeconomic headwinds like currency depreciation and supply chain pressures, maintaining rigorous internal governance and robust risk management frameworks is just as vital as financial cost control for long-term sustainability." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes