Home News Air India Flight Turbulence Sparks Pilot Condition Concerns

Air India Flight Faces Turbulence, Pilot's Condition Questioned

Aug 9, 2026
50 min
9
Aug 9, 2026 21:31
Air India Phuket-Delhi flight turbulence: Passengers raise questions over pilot’s condition

## Incident Overview

An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi encountered severe turbulence on August 4, leading to a sudden altitude drop of approximately 300 feet. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is currently investigating the incident.

## Passenger Concerns

Passengers have raised concerns about the pilot's condition during the flight. Shrikant Jha, a passenger, noted that the pilot's behavior and appearance seemed unusual, suggesting possible intoxication. Jha and others have urged authorities to conduct thorough medical tests on the pilot.

## Injuries and Aftermath

The turbulence caused panic among passengers, with some sustaining injuries. Renu Raniwala, another passenger, described the chaos, particularly worrying for those with children. She reported injuries while securing her grandson and claimed inadequate assistance was provided post-landing.

## Official Response

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has classified the event as a Serious Incident. Both pilots underwent initial psychoactive substance screenings, with further confirmatory tests pending. The flight carried 137 passengers, including infants, and eight crew members, with several injuries reported.

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