{
  "type": "article",
  "title": "Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Drops 300 Feet, DGCA Takes Both Pilots Off Roster",
  "summary": "An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi abruptly plunged about 300 feet mid-air, injuring passengers and crew, leading the regulator to take both pilots off active duty.",
  "content": "A serious aviation safety incident has come to light involving an Air India flight traveling from Phuket to New Delhi, prompting strict action from the regulatory authorities. The aviation watchdog has ordered both pilots in command to be taken off the active roster immediately following an abrupt altitude drop during the journey. The sudden plunge created panic inside the cabin, resulting in injuries to several passengers and cabin crew members as the aircraft lost significant height mid-flight.\n\nMid-Air Plunge and Cabin Injuries Aboard Airbus A-320\nThe incident took place on August 4 aboard Air India flight AI-2379 while it was operating its cruise phase on the route from Phuket to Delhi. The Airbus A-320 aircraft suddenly descended by approximately 300 feet without warning. A total of 137 passengers and 8 crew members were onboard the plane when the unexpected movement occurred. The violent jolt and rapid descent startled everyone on board and caused physical injuries to multiple individuals inside the cabin.\n\nInvestigation and Immediate Deroster Orders for Pilots\nThe Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau classified this dangerous occurrence as a serious incident and immediately launched a formal probe. In line with established standard operating procedures, both pilots underwent mandatory psychoactive substance testing. Reports indicate that the test results for the pilot in command necessitated a confirmatory examination. Consequently, authorities have directed that both pilots be derostered and kept away from flight duties until the investigation concludes and final reports are cleared.\n\nWhat this means for you\n• Across India: Highlights the critical importance of strict regulatory oversight and passenger safety protocols for all commercial airline operations.\n• In Delhi: Directly concerns passengers who were aboard this specific arrival route and raises safety questions for regional international arrivals.\n\nQuestions & Answers\n\n1. Which flight was involved in this incident?\nThe incident involved Air India flight AI-2379.\n\n2. How far did the aircraft drop during the flight?\nThe aircraft suddenly plunged by approximately 300 feet during the cruise phase.\n\n3. How many people were onboard the aircraft?\nThere were 137 passengers and 8 crew members onboard the plane.\n\n4. What action has been taken against the pilots?\nBoth pilots have been derostered and taken off flight duties pending the outcome of the investigation.",
  "url": "https://trendkia.com/en/national/air-india-phuket-delhi-flight-drops-300-feet-dgca-takes-both-pilots-off-roster-15404",
  "category": "India",
  "publishedAt": "2026-08-09",
  "tags": [
    "Air India",
    "DGCA",
    "Aviation Safety",
    "Phuket Delhi Flight",
    "AAIB",
    "Pilot Derostered"
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "site": "TrendKia"
}