New Delhi: An Air India flight travelling from Phuket, Thailand, to Delhi encountered severe turbulence on Tuesday morning while approaching the national capital. The sudden turbulence caused the aircraft to rapidly lose around 300 feet in altitude for a brief period, triggering panic among passengers. Twelve passengers and cabin crew members sustained minor injuries. The pilots quickly regained control of the aircraft and landed it safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Air India confirmed that no one suffered serious injuries and all passengers disembarked safely.
What happened during the flight?
Air India flight AI-2379 was operated by an Airbus A320 aircraft. The flight was operating normally, but before reaching Delhi, the aircraft was suddenly hit by bad weather and atmospheric instability. Due to the strong shaking, panic spread among the passengers sitting inside the plane. According to eyewitnesses, many people jumped from their seats while the cabin crew was serving passengers. There was a tense atmosphere in the plane for a few seconds, but the pilot took control of the situation.
What arrangements were made for the injured?
Even before the plane reached Delhi, Air India had made arrangements for medical assistance at the airport. As soon as the plane landed at around 11 in the morning, the team of doctors and medical staff reached the spot. According to initial information, about eight to ten passengers and crew members were sent to the medical center as a precautionary measure, where their health was examined. According to the airline, the condition of all the injured is stable, and there is no report of any serious injuries.
What did Air India say?
Air India issued an official statement saying that during the flight, the aircraft encountered turbulence for some time, which caused a momentary change in altitude. Despite this, the plane landed safely in Delhi. The airline said the safety of passengers and crew is its top priority. Necessary medical aid is being provided to those who have suffered minor injuries. Also, full cooperation will be provided to the concerned agencies in the investigation of the incident.
Are the concerns of aviation companies increasing due to turbulence?
Aviation experts say that cases of turbulence have increased across the world in the last few years. Sudden changes in weather and unstable winds formed at high altitude are the main reasons for this. Most of the time, planes are safe, but sudden jerks pose a risk of injury to passengers and crew who are not wearing seat belts. Therefore, it is always advisable to wear a seat belt in flight.
What will be the detailed investigation of the incident?
Air India has clarified that all the facts related to the incident will be reviewed. The technical condition of the aircraft and meteorological conditions will also be assessed so that it can be clear how intense the turbulence was and all aspects related to it can be properly analysed. At present, the airline says that all possible assistance is being provided to the affected passengers and all the passengers have reached their destination safely.
