An Air India Airbus A320 flight AI2379 lost approximately 91 meters (300 feet) of altitude suddenly on August 4, 2026, while flying from Phuket, Thailand to New Delhi, India. The aircraft stabilized and landed safely with 137 passengers and 8 crew members on board [1, 2, 3].
The sharp altitude drop caused injuries to 17 individuals, including passengers and cabin crew. Eight passengers and four crew members were hospitalized in stable condition [1, 2, 4].
Following the incident, India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) classified the event as a "Serious Incident" and launched an investigation [1, 5, 2, 4]. Both pilots underwent mandatory psychoactive substance screening tests. The pilot-in-command’s initial drug screening indicated the need for confirmatory testing, with samples sent to a designated laboratory; the final report remains pending [1, 5, 4].
Confidential sources told media that a second confirmatory drug test for the pilot was positive for marijuana, although this has not been officially confirmed by authorities or Air India [3]. Air India confirmed that post-flight screening was conducted but said it has not been informed of any test results and thus could not comment [1, 6]. Both pilots have been removed from flying duties pending investigation outcomes [1, 2, 7].
Indian media widely reported possible technical snags before the sudden altitude loss, but neither Air India, Airbus, nor aviation authorities have confirmed this [2, 4, 8]. Airbus said it is sending technical experts to New Delhi on August 11 to assist the investigation. An Airbus spokesperson said, "A team of specialists is being dispatched to assist with the investigation. Airbus is providing technical assistance to the relevant investigating authorities" [2].
This incident follows previous operational challenges for Air India, including a fatal crash of Flight 171 in June 2025 [1, 4].
The investigation continues with final drug test results awaited and Airbus experts arriving today to support authorities.
