An Air India flight traveling from Phuket, Thailand, to Delhi dropped approximately 300 feet during cruise on August 4 after encountering severe turbulence, resulting in 12 injuries and a medical emergency response at the airport. The incident occurred on flight AI2379, which was carrying 134 passengers.
Incident Details
The aircraft was about an hour and a half into its journey when it hit what the airline described as a "brief in-flight turbulence-related event during cruise, resulting in a momentary change in altitude." The plane landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport, and all passengers and crew disembarked without further incident, according to Gulf News.
Injuries and Hospital Response
Twelve people sustained injuries, including two cabin crew members. Seven passengers were taken to Fortis Flt Lt Rajan Dhall Hospital, where the emergency department received advance notice from Air India before landing. Hospital staff assessed patients immediately and activated a Code Yellow protocol to coordinate medical resources. Patients underwent radiological investigations, including CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays, before being moved for further observation.
Air India stated: "There have been no serious injuries 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."
Passenger Account
One passenger told ANI that turbulence struck while many were asleep during the early morning flight and lasted roughly two to three minutes. The passenger estimated 15 to 20 people were hurt and added, "We will 100% take action against Air India." Visuals from Delhi airport showed ambulances parked outside, with some passengers in wheelchairs and others wearing bandages.
An Air India spokesperson confirmed ground teams and medical personnel supported all affected: "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."
Related Incident
This follows a previous Air India incident where investigators released cockpit audio from Flight 171, revealing an eerie exchange before a crash that killed all but one passenger on June 12, 2025. Both fuel-control switches had shifted to 'cut-off' position, causing engine failure.
