DELHI — Passengers were hospitalized after an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi encountered severe turbulence during its journey, leaving several passengers and crew members injured, according to reports from the airline and aviation authorities.
Air India flight AI2379 experienced the turbulence while cruising on Aug. 4, 2026, causing a sudden change in altitude that resulted in injuries inside the cabin, according to preliminary accounts. The aircraft landed safely in Delhi, where injured passengers were taken for medical attention.
Reports said about 17 people, including 13 passengers and four crew members, were injured in the incident. Some passengers required hospitalization, while others received medical checks after arrival.
The aircraft, which was operating from Phuket, Thailand, to the Indian capital, continued its flight after the turbulence and completed its landing without further incident. Air India said it was cooperating with the investigation into the event and was assisting affected passengers and crew members.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation regulator, was notified of the incident and a review of the circumstances surrounding the turbulence was expected as part of standard aviation safety procedures.
Passenger accounts and videos circulated after the flight showed the aftermath inside the aircraft, with some travelers reporting that people were thrown from their seats during the turbulence. Aviation experts have noted that injuries during severe turbulence commonly occur when passengers or crew members are not secured by seat belts at the time of sudden aircraft movement.
The incident comes amid continued industry attention on turbulence-related passenger injuries, particularly as airlines and regulators emphasize the importance of following seat belt instructions throughout flights, including when passengers are seated during cruising periods.
Air India has not indicated that the aircraft suffered structural damage, and the airline has said the focus remains on supporting those affected and cooperating with authorities reviewing the incident.
The DGCA review and any further official findings will determine additional details about the turbulence event and the response measures taken after the flight landed.
