Question : PRE FLIGHT MEDICAL TEST FOR PILOTS

(a) whether a pilot on the Delhi-Patna flight was found in drunk state recently leading to the cancellation of the flight and causing great inconvenience to the passengers;

(b) if so,the details thereof;

(c) whether pre-flight alcohol test on pilots is mandatory before they begin operations;

(d) if so,the details thereof;

(e) whether there have been any instances of pilots being caught drunk;

(f) if so,the facts and the number of such cases that have come to light during last three years and the current year;and

(g) the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION(SHRI PRAFUL PATEL)

(a)and(b): No,Sir.No such incident has been reported wherein the pilot was found also positive leading to the cancellation of flight.

(c)and(d): Pre-flight alco test is carried out on pilots on random basis.If found positive the pilot is not permitted to operate the flight and action is taken as per the procedures elaborated in the Operations Manual of the Operator.

(e)and(f): Yes,Sir.37 incidents during 2005 to 2007 and 23 incidents during 2008 have been reported wherein cockpit crew were detected alco positive.

(g): If found positive,the pilot is not permitted to operate the flight and action is taken as per the procedures elaborated in the Operations Manual of the Operator which includes even termination from the service with the operator.