The ceiling of the flight was damaged due to turbulence. The injured were taken to the hospital for treatment.
The captain of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi has reportedly tested positive in a dope test for psychoactive substances. The test was conducted after the flight arrived in Delhi on August 4. However, Air India has not confirmed the report.
On August 4, the Air India Airbus A320 flight encountered turbulence, during which the aircraft suddenly dropped by around 300 feet. The pilot regained control and safely landed the flight at Delhi Airport at 11:07 am. There were 137 passengers and 8 crew members on board. As per protocol, the flight crew has been removed from flying duties until the investigation is completed.
Cracks in the aircraft ceiling…2 pictures…
Air India says pilot was tested, but results not shared
Air India said it was aware that pilots were screened after the flight as per the applicable protocol. However, the test results have not been shared with the airline. Therefore, it is not in a position to comment on any conclusions.
The airline said it regularly conducts drug tests of crew members as required under civil aviation regulations. This is a routine process and is separate from any specific flight or operational incident. Air India said it would continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities as required.
Injuries to eyes and neck, pictures of the injured
The injured were brought out of the airport in wheelchairs after first aid.
An air hostess suffered a neck injury. She was fitted with a neck brace.
The passenger sustained a head injury. He was brought out of the airport on a stretcher.
After the injury, the passenger was seen with his hand bandaged inside the plane.
DGCA examining multiple aspects of the incident
According to sources, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is examining all aspects of the case. The investigation will look into whether the situation was handled properly during the turbulence. It will also determine whether the incident was caused solely by bad weather or if there were other factors involved.
Plane can suddenly drop several feet during turbulence
Turbulence refers to a sudden change in airflow that causes an aircraft to shake or jolt. During turbulence, the aircraft may move up and down or from side to side for some time and can sometimes drop several feet. This can make passengers feel as if the plane is falling. However, in most cases, that is not what is happening.
Turbulence is classified into three types based on intensity
Light turbulence: The plane moves up and down by up to 1 metre. Passengers may not even notice it.
Moderate turbulence: The aircraft moves up and down by 3–6 metres. This can cause drinks to spill.
Severe turbulence: The aircraft can move up and down by up to 30 metres. Passengers who are not wearing seat belts may be thrown from their seats.
Can turbulence cause a plane crash?
With modern technology and improved safety systems, the risk of an aircraft accident caused by turbulence has become much lower. However, the risk is not completely eliminated during extremely severe turbulence or bad weather.
Modern aircraft are designed to withstand different types of turbulence. Pilots are also specially trained to handle such situations safely.
