India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has launched an investigation after an Air India Airbus A320neo experienced a brief but sudden altitude fluctuation during flight AI2379 from Phuket, Thailand, to Delhi.
The aircraft landed safely at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, following which the DGCA secured the aircraft’s Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) to determine the cause of the incident.
Flight Recorders Under Investigation
According to the civil aviation authorities, investigators have begun analysing the flight data and cockpit voice recordings to understand what led to the unexpected altitude variation during the cruise phase of the flight.
Air India said the aircraft experienced a momentary altitude deviation before landing safely in Delhi.
Several Passengers and Crew Injured
Reports indicate that the turbulence-related event resulted in injuries to multiple passengers and cabin crew. Emergency medical teams attended to those affected after the aircraft landed, while Air India said it is providing necessary assistance.
DGCA to Determine Cause
The DGCA’s investigation will focus on data recorded by the aircraft to determine whether the altitude fluctuation resulted from severe turbulence, operational factors, or any technical issue. No conclusions have been announced at this stage.
The regulator is expected to review the findings before deciding whether any further safety recommendations or regulatory action are required.
Investor & Industry Takeaway
While the aircraft landed safely and the investigation is ongoing, the incident highlights the aviation regulator’s standard safety protocol of securing flight recorders and conducting a detailed technical review after significant in-flight events. The outcome of the DGCA investigation will provide greater clarity on the cause of the altitude fluctuation.
