Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has affirmed that aviation safety remains the government's "topmost priority." His statement comes in the wake of a serious incident involving an Air India Phuket-Delhi flight, where the aircraft experienced an abrupt 300-foot altitude drop, injuring 17 passengers and crew members.
The incident occurred on August 4, when Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320, was cruising from Phuket to Delhi. Passengers and belongings were reportedly thrown about the cabin during the sudden descent over Odisha. Despite the chaotic moment, the aircraft quickly regained its altitude and safely landed in Delhi.
Initially, turbulence was cited as a possible cause, but questions rapidly emerged regarding the precise reason for the sudden loss of altitude. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched a thorough probe into the Air India flight incident, examining flight data, aircraft systems, and operational records under ICAO Annex 13 guidelines.
Adding a critical dimension to the ongoing inquiry, the pilot-in-command reportedly tested positive for a psychoactive substance in a confirmatory test. Both flight crew members have since been removed from the roster pending the full completion of the investigation and testing process.
Minister Naidu met with Air India's outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson and senior aviation officials to receive a direct update on the incident. He reiterated that there would be "no compromise on safety from any side," including regulators and airlines. Naidu indicated that the government would await the AAIB's comprehensive report before determining further actions, expressing confidence in the bureau's investigation.
Air India has pledged full cooperation with the investigators and has refrained from commenting on preliminary findings. The Civil Aviation Ministry is prepared to consider changes to existing regulations if the investigation's findings establish such a need, underscoring the government's commitment to enhancing aviation safety standards.