Airbus joins probe into Air India flight plunge

Airbus is sending experts to New Delhi to aid investigators examining an Air India flight that unexpectedly plummeted, injuring 17 people during a terrifying mid-air incident on August 4, according to an Airbus spokesperson. The Airbus A320, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, lost approximately 300 feet while flying from Phuket in Thailand to New Delhi before regaining control and landing safely.

Indian authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation, classifying the incident as a Serious Incident and assigning it to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB). The manufacturer is providing technical assistance to the relevant authorities and will offer further updates as they become available. However, Air India has stated that it cannot comment on any findings or observations related to the investigation.

Eight passengers and four cabin crew members were hospitalized following the landing in New Delhi. India's aviation ministry revealed that both pilots underwent a standard psychoactive substance screening test after the flight, with the pilot-in-command's results requiring confirmatory testing. The final report is yet to be released, and both pilots have been removed from the flying roster during the ongoing investigation.

This probe adds to a series of challenges faced by Air India, which has been struggling to recover following numerous setbacks, including the tragic crash of Flight 171 in June 2025, which killed 261 people, resulting in a significant blow to the airline's reputation.