The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is expected to submit its interim report on Air India Flight AI-2379 within a month, according to sources familiar with the investigation. The Phuket-to-Delhi flight experienced a sudden 300-foot altitude drop at 36,000 feet during its cruise phase on 4 August, injuring 24 people — including four crew members, two of whom sustained spinal injuries.

Key Developments in the Investigation

Sources confirmed that the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) have been secured. Medical examination records and crew testimonies are being collected, and analysis of the FDR and CVR data is being fast-tracked. Notably, unlike the Air India AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad, all material evidence in this case is reportedly in the possession of investigators.

The AAIB is examining technical, operational, medical, and human-factor evidence, including the Airbus A320neo aircraft systems, maintenance records, and interviews with relevant personnel. According to an official statement, all evidence will be examined in its entirety before any conclusions are drawn.

Pilot Fails Second Dope Test

In a significant development, the pilot in command of AI-2379 has reportedly failed a second dope test, sources confirmed. The pilot had initially tested positive for psychoactive substances during post-flight screening in New Delhi after the 4 August incident. A subsequent test also returned positive, reportedly confirming the presence of marijuana.

Sources recounted that the pilot was not in his seat at the time of the altitude drop — the co-pilot was in command of the aircraft when the flight plummeted 300 feet, entering a 'negative-G' scenario. Items in the cockpit floated up, and passengers who were not strapped in suffered serious injuries. Whether the drop was caused by pilot action, technical failure, or hydraulic malfunction remains under investigation.

Government Response and Regulatory Action

Air India has been pulled up by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and directed to address its work culture. The government has also asked the AAIB to expedite the investigation so that more stringent laws and exemplary punishments can be put in place to prevent recurrence.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu confirmed the details of injuries sustained, noting that two crew members suffered spinal injuries near the tailbone and neck. A more stringent framework to check crew doping is also under consideration, sources said.

What Happened on 4 August

AI-2379 was carrying 137 passengers and eight crew members en route from Phuket to New Delhi when it experienced the sudden altitude loss during its cruise phase. At least 20 passengers and four crew members were injured. The incident has drawn sharp scrutiny from aviation regulators over crew fitness protocols and airline safety culture.

The AAIB's interim findings are expected to shape the regulatory response, with the government signalling that legislative changes may follow.