Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hits Turbulence; 12 Injured, No Serious Casualties

NEW DELHI: A total of 12 people, including two crew members, were injured after an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced a brief mid-air turbulence on Tuesday, according to airline officials. The aircraft, operating as flight AI379, encountered the turbulence during cruise, causing a momentary change in altitude.

The Boeing aircraft landed safely at Delhi airport with 134 passengers aboard. Air India confirmed that there were no serious injuries, and those affected were provided medical assistance. “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,” the airline said in a statement.

Passengers reported a sudden drop in altitude that caught many off guard. One flyer recounted, “There was a sudden drop in the plane's altitude. I hit my head on the roof and then fell down.” Others suffered bruises and minor head injuries. The airline said there was some damage to the aircraft cabin due to the incident, though the exact extent has not been disclosed.

Turbulence is a common phenomenon in aviation, caused by atmospheric pressure changes, jet streams, or weather systems. While it can be unsettling, modern aircraft are designed to withstand significant turbulence. Pilots typically receive weather forecasts and radar updates to avoid such areas, but clear-air turbulence can occur without warning.

Following the incident, Air India said it was cooperating fully with the relevant authorities as part of an investigation. “The safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remain Air India's highest priority. We are providing all necessary support to those affected and are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities as part of the investigation,” the airline added.

Aviation experts note that turbulence-related injuries are often the result of passengers not wearing seatbelts when seated. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been informed about the incident. The airline has set up a team to assist passengers and ensure all necessary medical care is provided.

This comes amid a broader focus on air safety in India, with regulators emphasizing the importance of adherence to safety protocols. The incident underscores the need for passengers to keep seatbelts fastened whenever seated, as turbulence can occur unexpectedly.

Air India also confirmed that the aircraft landed normally and all passengers and crew disembarked safely. The injured were taken to a medical facility at the airport for examination, and those requiring further care were provided treatment. The airline did not specify whether any passengers were hospitalised, but said no serious injuries have been reported so far.

The national carrier expressed regret over the inconvenience caused and assured that it is extending full support to the affected passengers. This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of safety measures in mitigating risks.