Eight passengers and four crew members injured as investigators await captain’s confirmatory test results.
Dubai: Airbus is sending specialists to assist with the investigation into an Air India flight that suddenly lost around 300 feet during cruise, injuring eight passengers and four cabin crew members.
The Airbus A320 was operating Air India flight AI2379 from Phuket to Delhi on August 4, carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, and eight crew members, when it suddenly lost altitude.
The aircraft later stabilised and landed safely in Delhi. India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau has classified the event as a Serious Incident and launched an investigation.
Airbus said it was providing technical assistance to investigators in accordance with international aviation rules.
“In accordance with ICAO Annex 13, Airbus is providing technical assistance to the relevant investigating authorities. We are actively supporting the airline and will provide further information as it becomes available. A team of specialists is being dispatched to assist with the investigation,” Airbus said in a statement.
Flight recorders secured
Indian authorities have secured the aircraft’s Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder for examination as part of the investigation.
Air India said it could not comment on any findings while the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s investigation remains underway.
“The investigation into the incident is being conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) under the provisions of ICAO Annex 13. As the investigative process is ongoing, Air India cannot comment on any findings or observations related to the investigation. We will continue to extend our full cooperation to the relevant authorities as required,” an Air India spokesperson said.
Eight passengers and four cabin crew members were taken to hospital after the flight landed in Delhi.
Captain’s confirmatory test awaited
Both pilots underwent the prescribed psychoactive substance screening following the incident, as required under standard procedures for such occurrences.
India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation said the pilot-in-command’s screening result required confirmatory testing, with samples sent to a designated laboratory for further analysis.
“Samples have accordingly been sent to the designated laboratory for confirmatory analysis, and the final report is awaited,” the ministry said.
Both pilots have been removed from the flying roster by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation pending completion of the investigation and the prescribed testing process.
Authorities said any further action will depend on the investigation findings and the final confirmatory test result.
Investigation continues
The AAIB investigation is being conducted under ICAO Annex 13, the international framework for investigating aircraft accidents and serious incidents.
The process is intended to establish the circumstances and contributing factors behind the incident and identify measures that could help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Air India and Airbus said they will continue to cooperate fully with investigators as the probe remains underway.
