Air India AI2379 Turbulence Leaves 17 Injured

An Air India flight travelling from Phuket, Thailand, to New Delhi encountered a period of severe turbulence during the cruise phase of its journey, leaving 17 people injured after the aircraft experienced a brief altitude drop of approximately 300 feet.

The incident occurred while Flight AI2379, operated by an Airbus A320neo, was en route to Delhi. The sudden turbulence caused a strong jolt inside the cabin, resulting in injuries to passengers and cabin crew. Some occupants who were not securely seated or wearing seat belts at the time were thrown against the cabin interior.

Despite the unexpected weather disturbance, the flight crew maintained control of the aircraft and continued the journey safely. The aircraft landed without further incident at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, where medical personnel were ready to provide immediate assistance.

According to official information released after the flight's arrival, 17 people were injured, including 13 passengers and four cabin crew members. Several sustained minor injuries, while a few required further medical evaluation and treatment after landing.

Air India confirmed that it is assisting the affected passengers and crew members and is extending all necessary support. The airline has also initiated its internal review while cooperating with aviation authorities.

India's aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has begun an investigation into the incident. Investigators are expected to examine flight data, cockpit voice recordings, weather conditions along the route, and the aircraft's operational data to determine the exact circumstances that led to the turbulence encounter.

Although turbulence is a common part of air travel, severe episodes can occur unexpectedly and may cause injuries within the cabin. Aviation safety experts continue to recommend that passengers keep their seat belts fastened whenever seated, even if the seat belt sign is switched off, as a precaution against sudden turbulence.