Air India flight ‘flips mid-air’ while coming from Phuket to Delhi, injures 14: Airline issues statement

On August 4th, Air India flight AI2379 experienced a brief incident of clear air turbulence while en route from Phuket to Delhi. The sudden change in altitude caused 14 people, comprising both passengers and crew members, to sustain injuries. Despite this, the aircraft managed to land safely at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Air India confirmed the occurrence: "The flight experienced a brief turbulence-related event during cruise, resulting in a momentary change in altitude. There have been no serious injuries as of now. A small number of passengers and crew members with minor injuries requiring medical assessment have been taken to a medical facility at the airport for precautionary examination and care by Air India's airport team and medical personnel."

Clear air turbulence, invisible to pilots and radar, typically forms between 30,000 and 40,000 feet in cloud-free skies. It often results from wind shear near jet streams, with pilots having little warning before encountering such turbulence. While most cases remain mild, causing only uncomfortable rides, severe episodes can lead to abrupt changes in altitude, potentially throwing unbelted passengers and crew members violently upward.

A passenger recounted the harrowing experience: "It had been an hour and a half since the flight. It was early morning. We were sleeping on the flight. The flight suddenly stopped while moving and turned around...it kept moving like this for 2-3 minutes...15-20 passengers got injured...there were more than 100 people in the flight...70 to 80% of the people got injured...we will 100% take action against Air India."

The pilot reported that the aircraft dropped roughly 300 feet suddenly, causing injuries to several passengers.

Initial reports suggested that one cabin crew member suffered a serious injury, while several passengers sustained only minor injuries. Delhi airport authorities were notified while the aircraft remained airborne, and medical teams were prepared upon landing. After touching down safely, passengers disembarked without further incident.

Those reporting injuries were moved to the airport's medical facility, where they were assessed and treated accordingly. As of now, 8 passengers and 4 cabin crew members have been admitted to Fortis Hospital in Vasant Kunj for further evaluation. Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu visited the hospital to check on the affected passengers, assuring them of all necessary support and directing a medical status update on each patient every two hours.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also been instructed to initiate a detailed investigation into the incident.