Passengers aboard an Air India flight from Phuket to New Delhi have shared harrowing accounts of the terrifying moments when the aircraft encountered severe turbulence, leaving several people injured and the cabin in chaos.
The turbulence struck unexpectedly during the flight, causing the aircraft to experience a sudden altitude change that reportedly startled everyone on board. Passengers described scenes of panic as individuals who were not wearing seat belts were thrown from their seats, while overhead luggage shifted and cabin crew struggled to maintain balance.
One passenger recalled witnessing their sister being "thrown up in the air" during the violent turbulence, describing the experience as one of the most frightening moments of their life. Another traveler said they saw blood on a fellow passenger's face after the sudden jolt caused injuries inside the cabin.
According to eyewitnesses, screams filled the aircraft as the unexpected turbulence rocked the plane. Cabin crew members immediately responded to assist injured passengers, provide first aid where possible, and reassure those who had been shaken by the incident.
Despite the frightening mid-air ordeal, the flight crew followed standard safety procedures and successfully stabilized the aircraft before continuing the journey. The plane later landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, where medical teams were waiting to evaluate passengers and crew members who had sustained injuries.
Air India acknowledged the turbulence incident and stated that the safety and well-being of passengers and employees remain its highest priority. The airline said it is extending all necessary support to those affected and is cooperating with the relevant aviation authorities in reviewing the incident.
Aviation experts note that severe turbulence can occur with little or no warning, particularly in cases of clear-air turbulence, which often cannot be detected by onboard weather radar. While modern commercial aircraft are built to withstand such conditions, injuries can occur if passengers or crew members are not securely restrained.
The incident has once again underscored the importance of keeping seat belts fastened whenever seated, even if the seat belt sign is switched off. Aviation regulators consistently advise passengers to remain buckled during flights to reduce the risk of injury from unexpected turbulence.
Authorities are expected to examine flight data, weather conditions, and operational procedures as part of a routine review. Such investigations help improve safety measures and provide valuable insights into turbulence-related events.
Although the aircraft completed its journey safely, passengers say the frightening experience will remain with them for a long time. Their accounts serve as a powerful reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of following all in-flight safety instructions.
