Air India co-pilot sent back from US over alleged marijuana possession

A co-pilot of Air India was sent back to India by US authorities after being allegedly found in possession of marijuana during a duty-related trip to San Francisco, according to multiple reports and airline sources.

The incident took place on April 14, 2026 , when the pilot was travelling from Delhi to San Francisco as part of a “deadheading” assignment , meaning he was flying as a passenger to position himself for operating a return flight.

According to sources, US airport authorities conducted checks upon arrival at San Francisco airport and allegedly discovered marijuana in the pilot’s baggage . Following the discovery, he was declared inadmissible under US federal laws , which are strictly enforced at airports regardless of state-level legality, and was not allowed to leave the airport premises.

Air India confirmed that the crew member was immediately sent back to India on the next available flight after being informed by US authorities. The airline also stated that the pilot was scheduled for operational duty on the return leg of the journey.

An official spokesperson said the airline maintains “zero tolerance towards any violation of the law” and reiterated its commitment to safety, compliance, and professional conduct .

Following the incident, Air India has initiated an internal investigation and informed the aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) . Sources indicate that the co-pilot has been removed from the duty roster pending probe findings .

Authorities reportedly did not allow the pilot to proceed beyond airport security after the substance was allegedly detected, and the matter was escalated to airline officials and US border authorities immediately.

While some reports note that marijuana may be legal in certain US states, it remains prohibited under federal aviation and customs enforcement rules , which apply at international airports and border control zones.

Further action from Indian aviation regulators and Air India management is expected once the internal probe concludes. No official disciplinary outcome has been announced yet.