The government has taken a strict stand in the case of Air India flight AI2379 coming from Phuket to Delhi suddenly losing altitude by about 300 feet and injuring 17 passengers and crew members. The Civil Aviation Ministry has summoned Air India's outgoing CEO Campbell Wilson to the ministry headquarters. The government is now conducting a detailed review of the airline's security and operational arrangements.
Civil Aviation Ministry called an important meeting
According to the ministry, senior officials of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and DGCA attended the meeting chaired by the Civil Aviation Secretary. Safety and operational issues to Air India were reviewed in the meeting. The incident that happened in AI2379 was also a major topic of discussion.
The flight was with 137 passengers and 8 crew members.
Air India's Airbus A320 flight AI2379 was coming from Phuket to Delhi. There were 137 passengers and 8 crew members on board the plane. During the flight, the altitude of the plane suddenly decreased by about 300 feet. Initially the airline had described it as an incident to intense turbulence that occurred for some time.
However, DGCA classified the case as a serious incident and handed over the investigation to AAIB. The flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) of the aircraft have been secured.
13 passengers and 4 crew members reached hospital
After landing in Delhi, 13 passengers and 4 cabin crew members were taken to hospital. According to the airline, five passengers were discharged after treatment, while the others continued to be monitored. Videos shared by passengers showed signs of damage and sudden strong shaking inside the cabin.
Autopilot and hydraulic system check
During the investigation, the autopilot disconnection of the aircraft and a possible fault in the hydraulic system are also being investigated. However, these technical problems have not been officially confirmed yet. Investigators will analyze the FDR, CVR and technical records of the aircraft to determine the full sequence of events.
Following the incident, both pilots were subjected to mandatory psychoactive substance screening tests. The initial report of the commanding pilot has been sent to the lab for final confirmation. DGCA has removed both the pilots from duty until the investigation is completed.
Government surveillance increased on Air India
The incident of AI2379 has come to light at a time when Air India is already under regulatory surveillance. After the Ahmedabad-London accident, the government is keeping an eye on the safety, operation and reliability of the airline.
Campbell Wilson will remain in office till September 30. After him, the leadership is set to be handed over to Tewolde Gebremariam, former head of Ethiopian Airlines. The investigation into the AI2379 case is ongoing and further action will be decided based on its report.
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