Passengers aboard an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced anxious moments on Tuesday after the aircraft encountered severe turbulence during its journey, causing a sudden loss of altitude and leaving several passengers and cabin crew with minor injuries before landing safely in the national capital.
According to the airline, Flight AI2379 encountered a brief but intense turbulence event while cruising at high altitude. During the incident, the aircraft reportedly dropped nearly 300 feet, triggering panic inside the cabin.
Flight-tracking data also indicated a sharp altitude fluctuation during the journey, suggesting the aircraft was affected by turbulent weather conditions before stabilising.
Despite the mid-air scare, the flight completed its journey without further incident. After departing Phuket at 8:25 am, the aircraft landed safely at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport at 11:50 am, where emergency medical teams were kept on standby.
Air India confirmed that a few passengers and crew members sustained minor injuries and were shifted to a medical facility at the airport for examination and treatment as a precautionary measure.
In an official statement, the airline said, “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.”
However, visuals from the airport reflected the impact of the turbulence. Videos showed injured passengers being transported on wheelchairs, while medical staff assisted them after arrival.
One passenger was seen with heavy bandaging across his face and head, with one eye completely covered. Another video showed a female Air India cabin crew member wearing a neck collar while being moved in a wheelchair for medical evaluation.
Authorities and the airline have begun examining the circumstances surrounding the turbulence, while Air India said it is extending all necessary assistance to the affected passengers and crew. The incident has once again highlighted the unpredictable nature of severe in-flight turbulence, even when flights ultimately land safely.
