Initial findings from aircraft manufacturer Airbus indicate that an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced a critical loss of control for approximately four seconds on August 4, 2026. The Airbus A320, operating as flight AI 2379, subsequently plunged about 300 feet, injuring 20 passengers and four cabin crew members. Seventeen individuals required hospitalization following the sudden incident.
Airbus's analysis of the flight data recorder revealed that all three of the aircraft's hydraulic systems suffered losses during the critical four-second period. This system failure rendered the aircraft's elevators and ailerons, crucial for pitch and roll control, temporarily unavailable. The autopilot also disengaged briefly, and investigators noted a "full nose-down input" as the plane lost altitude before the hydraulic systems eventually recovered, allowing the pilots to stabilize the aircraft and land safely in Delhi.
Investigation Underway
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the probe into the incident, with assistance from Airbus and the French aviation accident investigation authority. Air India had initially attributed the altitude loss to severe turbulence. However, Airbus has acknowledged technical glitches linked to the event and has requested Air India to conduct a thorough inspection of the aircraft's systems and sensors, though a definitive root cause has not yet been identified.
Pilot Testing and Airline Response
Adding another layer to the investigation, the flight's captain tested positive for marijuana. However, officials caution that this test result alone does not establish impairment or a direct contribution to the incident. Both pilots involved have been de-rostered pending the full investigation's conclusion. Following the event, Air India announced a mandate for psychoactive substance testing for all its pilots, reinforcing stricter safety protocols across its operations.