The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau is probing a serious turbulence incident involving an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi [1].
The investigation focuses on whether pilot impairment contributed to the event, raising critical questions about crew safety and regulatory oversight for the carrier.
Flight AI2379 encountered severe atmospheric turbulence while cruising over the Bay of Bengal on Aug. 4, 2024 [1, 4]. The aircraft suffered a sudden altitude loss of approximately 300 feet [5]. At least 12 people were injured during the descent [6].
Government officials have classified the event as a serious incident [3]. As part of the probe, both the captain and the co-pilot were removed from the flight roster [7].
Authorities are currently reviewing the medical status of the crew. A DGCA spokesperson said the pilot-in-command’s screening test report was not negative and has been sent for confirmatory tests [2]. While some reports stated the captain tested positive for psychoactive substances, the official status remains pending the final confirmatory results [2, 2].
This case marks a significant investigation into the intersection of environmental hazards and crew readiness. The AAIB is analyzing flight data to determine if the altitude drop was purely a result of weather or if cockpit responses were delayed [1, 3].
“The aircraft suffered a sudden altitude loss of approximately 300 feet.”
This investigation highlights the strict protocols governing pilot health and the classification of 'serious incidents' in aviation. If confirmatory tests prove the presence of psychoactive substances, it could lead to severe disciplinary action against the crew and prompt a wider audit of Air India's crew screening processes to prevent future safety lapses.
