An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi encountered severe turbulence on Aug. 4, 2024, resulting in minor injuries to passengers and crew [1, 2].
The incident underscores the ongoing risks of clear-air turbulence and sudden altitude shifts, which can cause injuries even on flights that land safely.
The aircraft, identified in reports as flight AI379 [1] or AI2379 [2], was carrying 134 passengers [1]. During the journey, the plane experienced a sudden loss of altitude, dropping 300 feet [3]. This rapid descent occurred mid-air and was likely associated with a storm system over the region [4, 5].
Reports on the number of injured persons vary between sources. One report said 12 people were injured [1], while another said 14 passengers and crew sustained injuries [2]. All injuries were described as minor [1].
The flight continued its journey after the turbulence subsided. The aircraft eventually landed safely at the Delhi airport [1, 3].
Severe turbulence of this nature often occurs when aircraft encounter rapidly changing air currents or storm cells. Such events can throw unrestrained passengers and crew members against cabin fixtures or the ceiling, leading to the types of minor injuries reported in this instance [5].
“The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude, dropping 300 feet.”
This incident highlights the volatility of weather-related flight disruptions in South Asia. While the aircraft landed safely, the discrepancy in injury counts and flight numbers suggests initial confusion during the reporting phase, a common occurrence in aviation incidents. The event serves as a reminder of the critical importance of seatbelt compliance, as sudden altitude drops can cause injuries regardless of the plane's overall structural integrity.
