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The government has taken a strict view of the Air India flight incident involving a plane travelling from Phuket to Delhi. On Tuesday (August 11), it summoned outgoing Air India CEO and Accountable Manager Campbell Wilson.

Meanwhile, a key meeting was underway between Civil Aviation Ministry Secretary Sameer Sinha, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Director General Veer Vikram Yadav and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) Director General GVG Yugandhar over the Air India turbulence incident.

The meeting was discussing aspects related to flight safety and accountability for the incident, as of the time of writing.

Pilots Removed From Flight Roster

The two pilots operating the flight were removed from the roster on Sunday (August 9). As part of the prescribed procedure, both pilots also underwent screening tests for narcotic substances.

The ministry had said the result of the pilot-in-command required a repeat test for confirmation. Samples were subsequently sent to designated laboratories, with the final report awaited.

The ministry clarified that such testing is a standard procedure following incidents of this nature. Until the reports are received, no conclusion can be drawn about the test results.

Both pilots will remain off flight duty until the investigation is completed. The DGCA has removed them from the roster, meaning they will not operate any flights for the time being.

Further action will be decided after the test results and laboratory reports are received.

What Happened On The Phuket-Delhi Flight?

The incident occurred on August 4, when an Air India flight travelling from Phuket in Thailand to Delhi encountered severe turbulence.

During the flight, the aircraft suddenly descended before control was regained. Twelve passengers and crew members were injured in the turbulence.

The aircraft subsequently landed safely at Delhi airport, and all passengers and crew members were able to leave the aircraft safely.