A passenger onboard the Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that was hit by severe turbulence on Tuesday morning (August 4) has shared the terrifying moments inside the aircraft, saying his family was thrown into the air during the horrific incident. The passenger sharing his ordeal said that his father was sitting in the aisle seat and drinking coffee when the aircraft was suddenly hit by a strong jolt.
“My father was not wearing a seat belt because the seat belt sign was not on. Suddenly, there was a big jolt. He flew up, hit the roof of the aircraft and then fell on the floor,” he told ANI news agency.
He added that his mother, who was seated by the window, hit her head on the overhead luggage compartment. A part of the overhead cabin also came loose and struck her near the left eye, causing swelling.
Two-Year-Old Daughter Thrown into Aisle
The passenger’s wife and two-year-old daughter were also thrown into the aisle during the turbulence. “My daughter suffered a head injury and swelling. Thankfully, doctors treated her at the airport,” he told ANI.
Calling the incident a “rebirth,” the passenger said everyone onboard was terrified. “There were screams everywhere. My five-year-old daughter was very scared. We all thought it was a miracle that we landed safely,” he said.
He praised the pilots and cabin crew for remaining calm and helping passengers during the emergency. He also demanded a detailed investigation into the incident to improve passenger safety.
Photos Show Damage Inside Cabin
Pictures taken inside the aircraft after the turbulence show food trays, luggage and other items scattered across the cabin. Some overhead compartments were damaged, while injured passengers received medical attention after landing.
The Air India flight landed safely at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. According to the airline, the aircraft experienced a brief turbulence-related event during cruise, leading to a temporary change in altitude.
Air India said a small number of passengers and crew members suffered minor injuries and were taken for medical examination as a precaution.
Meanwhile, Fortis Hospital in Vasant Kunj said seven passengers were admitted for medical evaluation. Doctors carried out CT scans, MRIs and X-rays where needed, and further assessments are underway. Air India said there were no reports of serious injuries.w