An Air India pilot has been deported from the United States after authorities allegedly found marijuana in his luggage while he was travelling to operate a flight.

The crew member had travelled from Delhi to San Francisco on 14 April and was scheduled to operate a subsequent flight after arriving in the US. However, he was stopped during checks by American authorities and declared inadmissible under local laws before being sent back to India.

In a statement, Air India confirmed the incident.

“One of our crew members travelling from Delhi to San Francisco on 14 April, for positioning to operate a subsequent flight, was found to be inadmissible as per local laws and has been sent back to India,” the airline said.

The airline emphasised its strict compliance standards, adding it maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of the law.

“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,” the spokesperson said.

The airline reiterated that safety remains its top priority.

Support our Journalism

No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.