​European aerospace giant Airbus is dispatching a team of technical specialists to New Delhi on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, to assist Indian investigators probing a terrifying mid-air plunge on an Air India flight that left 17 people injured.
​The incident occurred on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, aboard Air India Flight AI2379, operated by an Airbus A320neo (registration VT-EXO). Flying from Phuket International Airport in Thailand to Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi with 137 passengers and eight crew members aboard, the aircraft suffered a sudden loss of altitude while cruising at 36,000 feet.
​During the momentary event outside Indian airspace, the jet suddenly plunged approximately 300 feet (91 metres), a drop equivalent to roughly 25 to 30 storeys—causing loose items and unbelted occupants to hit the cabin ceiling.
​”We saw everything flying around and hitting the ceiling of the aircraft. Some overhead baggage bins opened and luggage fell on passengers,” recalled one passenger following the ordeal.
​Despite the disturbance, the crew stabilized the aircraft and landed safely at Terminal 3 in New Delhi at 11:07 AM IST.
​A total of 17 individuals, comprising 13 passengers and four cabin crew members—sustained injuries during the sudden drop.
Upon arrival in New Delhi, emergency medical response teams met the aircraft. Eight passengers and four cabin crew members were admitted to local medical facilities, including Fortis Hospital in Vasant Kunj and a specialized spinal injury center.
Authorities reported that all hospitalized individuals remain in stable condition.
​India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have formally classified the plunge as a “Serious Incident” and launched a comprehensive probe, securing the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder.
​An Airbus spokesperson confirmed on Monday that the plane manufacturer is actively collaborating with investigators:
​”A team of specialists is being dispatched to assist with the investigation. 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.”
​An Air India spokesperson reiterated the carrier’s commitment to safety: “Air India experienced a sudden loss of altitude during cruise. After the momentary event, the aircraft landed safely in Delhi. We are fully cooperating with the investigation and cannot comment further on specific observations while the probe is ongoing.”
​In accordance with standard safety protocols following a severe aviation event, both pilots were removed from the flying roster and subjected to mandatory psychoactive substance screening.
​According to a statement from India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation, the initial screening test for the Pilot-in-Command (PIC) indicated a result that required additional verification.
​”The screening test in respect of the Pilot-in-Command indicated a result requiring confirmatory testing. Samples have accordingly been sent to the designated laboratory for confirmatory analysis, and the final report is awaited,” the ministry stated.
​The Airbus investigation team arriving in New Delhi will focus on evaluating flight telemetry, control inputs, and potential technical snags to determine whether atmospheric turbulence, operational factors, or mechanical anomalies triggered the sudden loss of altitude.
