Air India Flight From Phuket To Delhi Encounters Clear-Air Turbulence

An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi encountered a brief episode of clear-air turbulence during its journey on August 4, leaving around 14 passengers and crew members with minor injuries. Flight AI2379, operated by an Airbus A320, was cruising at altitude when it experienced a sudden loss of approximately 300 feet. Despite the unexpected jolt, the aircraft continued its journey and landed safely at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, where medical teams had been placed on standby.

All passengers and crew disembarked safely after landing. Those who sustained injuries were taken to the airport's medical facility for examination and treatment. Initial reports indicated that about 10 passengers and four cabin crew members were injured, although Air India later said that only a small number required medical attention and that none of the injuries were serious. The airline has said it is extending support to those affected and is cooperating with the relevant aviation authorities as the incident is investigated.

What Is Clear-Air Turbulence?

The turbulence encountered by AI2379 has been identified as clear-air turbulence (CAT), one of the most challenging forms of turbulence for pilots to anticipate. Unlike turbulence associated with thunderstorms or clouds, CAT develops in otherwise clear skies and cannot be detected by conventional onboard weather radar.

It is typically caused by sudden changes in wind speed and direction—known as wind shear—around powerful jet streams at cruising altitudes of roughly 30,000 to 40,000 feet. Because there are often no visible warning signs, pilots may receive little or no advance notice before encountering it. While most episodes are mild, stronger instances can produce abrupt vertical or lateral movements capable of injuring passengers and cabin crew who are not seated or wearing seat belts. For this reason, aviation authorities consistently advise travellers to keep their seat belts fastened whenever they are seated, even after the seat belt sign has been switched off.

Investigation Underway

Delhi airport authorities were informed while the aircraft was still en route, allowing medical personnel to prepare before its arrival. Following the landing, injured passengers and crew were assessed immediately, with officials confirming that the injuries were largely minor.

Air India has confirmed that it is working with the relevant authorities as investigations continue. The inquiry is expected to examine flight data, meteorological conditions along the route and operational procedures to better understand the circumstances behind the turbulence encounter and the aircraft's temporary loss of altitude. Although the airline has not released further technical details, the findings could contribute to improved forecasting, operational protocols and passenger safety measures for future flights involving clear-air turbulence.

(With inputs from various sources)

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