Turbulence on Air India Phuket-Delhi flight injures passengers, crew
NEW DELHI: An Air India flight operating between Phuket and Delhi encountered turbulence during its descent on Tuesday morning, resulting in injuries to a number of passengers and crew members, according to airline officials.
The aircraft, an Airbus A320 carrying 134 passengers, experienced a sudden drop in altitude during the incident. The flight landed safely at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport just after 11 am, where airport medical teams were stationed to receive the passengers.
About 10 passengers and two crew members are reported to have been taken to the Medanta medical centre at the airport for precautionary examination and care. Air India spokesperson said: "Air India confirms that flight AI2379, operating from Phuket to Delhi on 4 August, experienced a brief in-flight turbulence-related event during cruise, resulting in a momentary change in altitude.
"The aircraft landed safely in Delhi and all passengers and crew have safely disembarked. There have been no serious injuries reported 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."
The airline said the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain its highest priority, and it is providing all necessary support to those affected. "We are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities as part of the investigation," the spokesperson added.
Turbulence is a common occurrence in air travel, often caused by atmospheric pressure changes, and can sometimes lead to sudden altitude shifts. While such events can be unsettling, serious injuries are relatively rare. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been notified, and a preliminary inquiry into the incident is expected to be conducted.
Passengers who were not medically transferred have continued their onward journeys. Air India has not specified if any flight schedules were disrupted due to the incident.
