An Air India flight (AI-2379) operating from Phuket, Thailand, to Delhi encountered severe turbulence during its journey, leaving 10 passengers and four crew members with minor injuries. Thanks to the timely response and professional handling by the pilots, the Airbus A320 landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. All injured individuals received immediate medical attention, and no serious injuries were reported.

The aircraft was carrying 134 passengers when it experienced sudden turbulence during the cruise phase of the flight. Passengers reported that the aircraft shook violently for nearly two to three minutes, causing several people to be thrown from their seats. Those who were not wearing seat belts suffered most of the injuries.

After landing, Air India's medical team attended to the injured passengers and crew. The airline stated that passenger safety remains its highest priority and confirmed that all affected individuals received appropriate medical assistance. It also said that the incident would be investigated in coordination with aviation authorities.

What is Turbulence?

Turbulence refers to sudden irregular movements of air that cause an aircraft to shake or change altitude unexpectedly. It is similar to a vehicle travelling over a rough road. Modern aircraft are built to withstand turbulence, and in most cases it does not pose a structural threat to the aircraft. However, passengers without seat belts are at greater risk of injury.

Why Does Turbulence Occur?

Turbulence can result from thunderstorms, strong winds, temperature differences between air masses, mountain waves, or jet streams. One of the most dangerous forms is *Clear Air Turbulence (CAT)*, which occurs without visible clouds and is difficult to detect using weather radar.

Major Turbulence Incidents

Several major turbulence incidents have occurred in recent years. In May 2024, a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore experienced extreme turbulence over Myanmar, causing one death and injuring more than 70 people.

In March 2024, a LATAM Airlines flight from Sydney to Auckland suffered a sudden altitude change, leaving over 50 passengers injured. Emirates also reported injuries after turbulence over the Indian Ocean in December 2023.

India has witnessed similar incidents as well. In May 2022, a SpiceJet flight from Mumbai to Durgapur encountered severe turbulence during landing, injuring several passengers and crew members. Earlier, in 2018, an Air India Dreamliner flying from Amritsar to Delhi experienced heavy turbulence that caused cabin panels to loosen and luggage to fall.

Passenger Safety Tips

Aviation experts advise passengers to keep their seat belts fastened whenever seated, even if the seat belt sign is turned off. Turbulence can occur without warning, and wearing a seat belt significantly reduces the risk of injury. Passengers should also follow all instructions given by cabin crew throughout the flight.