New Delhi : India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has initiated a formal, independent investigation into an in-flight incident involving Air India flight AI 2379 operating from Phuket to Delhi on August 4, 2026.
The aircraft, an Airbus A320 with registration VT-EXO, experienced a sudden altitude variation of approximately 300 feet while cruising. Following the sudden drop, the crew successfully stabilized the aircraft, and it landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.
Injuries and Aircraft Demographics The flight was carrying a total of 137 passengers—including three infants—and eight crew members (two pilots and six cabin crew). During the sudden altitude variation, 20 passengers and four cabin crew members sustained injuries.
International Investigation Framework Following notifications received from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the AAIB took up the case under applicable international protocols prescribed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Formal notifications have already been dispatched to ICAO and concerned foreign states.
In line with international aviation safety frameworks, France’s aviation safety authority—the Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses pour la sécurité de l’aviation civile (BEA)—as the investigation authority of the State of Design and Manufacture, along with technical representatives from Airbus, is extending full technical assistance to the AAIB. This includes providing design documentation and technical analysis.
Comprehensive and Evidence-Based Probe The AAIB stated that its investigation is actively focused on collecting, preserving, and examining all operational, technical, medical, and human-factor evidence. Investigators are reviewing recorded flight data, maintenance logs, aircraft systems, and conducting detailed interviews with involved personnel.
The Bureau emphasized that the sole objective of the probe is to determine the contributing factors to prevent future recurrences, urging the media and the public to refrain from drawing conclusions based on unverified or incomplete information. Preliminary findings will be released within the stipulated ICAO timeframe as the evidence is fully analyzed.
