Air India flight AI-2379 dropped 300 feet in severe turbulence over the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday, August 4, injuring several passengers and crew members.
The Airbus A320-200N aircraft was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members from Phuket, Thailand, to Delhi, India. The flight was cruising at an altitude of approximately 36,000 feet when it encountered violent shaking above the Bay of Bengal.
The sudden drop caused panic in the cabin, sending objects flying through the aircraft and shouting among passengers. Images shared after the incident showed visible damage inside the cabin, including structural damage to the ceiling caused by impacted objects.
Passenger Injuries and Flight Details
Several people on board sustained injuries during the turbulent episode, suffering impacts to the head, back, and shoulders. Data recorded by The Aviation Herald indicated that the aircraft experienced multiple sharp altitude variations, losing roughly 300 feet, or nearly 90 meters, before returning to its normal cruise level.
Despite the severe mid-air disturbance, the flight crew maintained control of the aircraft and continued the planned journey toward India without diverting.
Hospitalization in Delhi
According to the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation, eight passengers and four crew members were taken to the hospital for medical examination upon arrival in Delhi. Officials confirmed that all hospitalized individuals remained in stable condition, and Air India stated that no severe injuries were reported.
Air India confirmed that the plane completed its flight and touched down normally in the Indian capital. The airline stated that the aircraft landed without further incident and all passengers and crew members disembarked safely.
Investigation into the Incident
Air India stated that it is cooperating with relevant aviation authorities and the aircraft manufacturer to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the sudden turbulence. The airline added that it is providing necessary assistance to those affected while fully participating in the official investigation.
