'Marijuana found in bag': Air India co-pilot deported from US

New Delhi: An Air India co-pilot has been sent back from the US after he was allegedly found to be carrying marijuana in his bag. This pilot was travelling as staff on duty (in passenger cabin) on a Delhi-San Francisco flight on Tuesday to operate the return flight.

On arrival in San Francisco, say people in the know, US authorities allegedly found marijuana in his bag. After that he was not allowed to leave the airport. The airline was informed and it was decided to send him back to India on the next available flight.

Air India has informed the DGCA and the co-pilot was on his way back to Delhi Thursday.

An AI spokesman said: "One of our crew members travelling from Delhi to San Francisco on April 14, for positioning to operate a subsequent flight, was found to be inadmissible as per local laws and has been sent back to India. 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. Ensuring safety, as always, remains Air India's number one priority."

"The pilot had not consumed marijuana and was allegedly found to have it in his possession," said people in the know. Some countries, not India, permit medicinal use of marijuana.
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