The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has released a significant preliminary report regarding a safety incident involving an Air India flight operating between Phuket and Delhi. According to the findings made public on Friday, the lead pilot of the aircraft has been confirmed to have consumed psychoactive substances, a revelation that the bureau has categorized as a matter of serious concern. This development follows a terrifying mid-air incident where the aircraft experienced a sudden and drastic loss of altitude, causing panic and injuries among those on board.
Details of the Flight and the Sudden Altitude Drop
The incident took place on August 4 and involved flight AI 2379, which was being operated using an Airbus A320-251N aircraft. The specific aircraft involved in this event carries the registration number VT-EXO. On the day of the occurrence, the flight was carrying a total of 145 individuals, a figure that includes 2 pilots and 6 cabin crew members along with the passengers. During its journey from Phuket to Delhi, the aircraft suddenly plunged 300 feet while in the air. This abrupt movement led to a chaotic situation inside the cabin and resulted in injuries to several people.
Injuries and Medical Assistance Provided
The 10 page preliminary report issued by the AAIB provides a detailed account of the aftermath of the altitude drop. Upon the flight's arrival at the Delhi airport, medical assistance was required for a total of 24 individuals. The report specifies that among these 24 people, 4 individuals sustained serious injuries. Based on the assessment of the injuries suffered by the passengers and crew, as well as the evidence collected from the aircraft, the AAIB has officially classified this event under the category of an accident.
Confirmation of Psychoactive Substance Use
A critical aspect of the investigation involved testing the flight crew for the use of prohibited substances. The AAIB stated that the investigation into the lead pilot's conduct revealed that the report for psychoactive substances wasn't negative. The bureau emphasized that the confirmation of the use of such substances by a pilot is a grave issue that impacts aviation safety. In its interim safety recommendation, the AAIB has formally requested the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the national aviation regulator, to take appropriate and priority action to prevent the use of such substances by flight crew members.
Investigation Process and Turbulence Claims
Initially, the bureau received information suggesting that the aircraft had encountered turbulence during its flight to the national capital. However, the investigation has since expanded to look at all possible factors. The AAIB investigation team conducted initial interactions with the cabin crew and the flight crew members at the Delhi airport immediately after the event, while to ensure the integrity of the probe, both members of the flight crew were subsequently questioned separately by the investigators. The agency is currently in the process of analyzing the records and data gathered from various stakeholders to finalize the investigation.