An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi faced a frightening incident on August 4, 2026, when it suddenly lost around 300 feet of altitude. Flight AI2379, carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members, experienced a brief loss of control before safely landing in Delhi. Several passengers and crew members were injured.
The incident raised questions after the pilot-in-command reportedly tested positive for marijuana during post-flight screening. However, this does not prove that the pilot was intoxicated or that the test result caused the incident. Both pilots were removed from flying duties while the investigation continued with AAIB.
Airbus preliminary analysis pointed to a possible technical problem. The aircraft reportedly experienced a temporary loss of hydraulic pressure across all three hydraulic systems, making important flight controls unresponsive for about four seconds. The systems later recovered, allowing the pilots to regain control.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, along with Airbus and France BEA, is examining flight data, maintenance records and pilot statements to determine the exact cause. Air India has also strengthened substance testing for its pilots. Until the official investigation is completed, it remains unclear whether the incident was caused by a technical failure, human factors, or a combination of both. Blaming the pilot alone would therefore be premature.
