In India, alcohol in aviation appears to be a bigger problem than previously thought. The aviation authority DGCA has carried out increased checks in recent months and numerous ground employees were found drunk while on duty.

The supervisory authority suspended a total of 84 employees whose names were prominently published. The DGCA has a zero-tolerance policy and suspends aviation employees without exception if they test positive for alcohol. The procedure affects both the flying personnel and employees on the ground and serves to ensure safety.

Published data shows that between January 2021 and March 2022, a total of 84 ground staff failed at 42 Indian airports. These include technicians, drivers, marshals, handling workers and other professional groups. The vast majority should concern the driver area.

India has repeatedly caused a stir in the past, because from time to time flying employees were also found drunk. The aviation authority declares war on alcohol in aviation with frequent checks in all professional areas and advocates a zero-tolerance policy. Anyone who tests positive is officially suspended and must then expect to be dismissed by their employer.