Jetstar Pilot Suspended Following Discovery of Illegal Drugs in Luggage

A pilot for Australian low-cost carrier Jetstar has been stood down after traces of illegal drugs were allegedly detected in his luggage.

The long-haul pilot was flying back to Melbourne Airport (MEL) from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) on May 23, 2023 when the substance was found following a routine staff check at Melbourne Airport.

The airport police alerted the Australian Federal Police (AFP), who confirmed with media outlet Skynews Australia that it has concluded investigations and has not laid any charges against the pilot.

“The AFP investigated a report in Melbourne in May in relation to alleged drug possession at the airport,” an AFP spokesperson said in a statement.

“No criminal offenses were identified and the AFP considers the matter closed,” the spokesperson added.

Jetstar is conducting its own investigation. An unidentified source familiar with the incident told various Australian media that a search of the pilot’s phone had also revealed drug-related material. It is unclear what the exact content was.