An Air India flight traveling from Phuket to Delhi on August 4, 2026, experienced a sudden mid-air plunge of approximately 300 feet after encountering multiple technical issues, including a complete triple hydraulic failure. The incident on flight AI2379, operated by an Airbus A320, resulted in injuries to at least 17 individuals, comprising both passengers and cabin crew.
Reports indicate that the aircraft faced several critical glitches during its cruise phase. These included an autopilot disconnection, followed by a flight control stall message. Crucially, the aircraft's hydraulic systems, vital for controlling flight surfaces, failed completely. Despite these severe challenges and encountering mid-air turbulence, the flight crew successfully managed to stabilize the aircraft and continued its journey to land safely in Delhi.
Investigation Underway
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched a comprehensive probe into the incident, classifying it as serious, in accordance with Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines. Given that the aircraft is an Airbus A320, teams from Airbus and France’s Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses (BEA) are actively assisting the Indian authorities in the investigation.
As part of the standard protocol for serious incidents, the pilot-in-command underwent mandatory psychoactive substance screening, with samples sent for confirmatory testing. Both pilots involved in the incident have been taken off the roster by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) pending the full investigation and receipt of test results.
Passenger and Crew Injuries
The sudden loss of altitude caused significant distress and injuries among those on board. A total of 17 people sustained injuries, with some cabin crew members reportedly suffering spinal and neck injuries, necessitating medical care. Two cabin crew members were admitted to Fortis Hospital for treatment of spinal injuries.
One passenger recounted holding her grandson tightly and fastening his seatbelt as the aircraft plunged, sustaining rib injuries herself. Another young child was reportedly thrown towards the rear of the plane during the sudden descent. The flight was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, and eight crew members.