Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi leaves 12 injured due to turbulence, and sudden altitude drop

An Air India flight travelling from Phuket to Delhi was hit by turbulence on Tuesday, injuring 12 people, including two crew members, according to the airline and local media reports.

Air India said flight AI379 experienced a brief turbulence-related event during cruise, causing a momentary change in altitude.

The aircraft landed safely in Delhi, where all 134 passengers and crew disembarked without further incident. The airline said there were no serious injuries.

"A small number of passengers and crew members with minor injuries requiring medical assessment have been taken to a medical facility at the airport for precautionary examination and care by Air India's airport team and medical personnel," Air India said in a statement.

Passengers described a sudden drop in altitude during the flight.

"There was a sudden drop in the plane's altitude. I hit my head on the roof and then fell down," one passenger said.

Some travellers reportedly suffered bruises and minor head injuries, while the aircraft also sustained minor damage.

"The safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remain Air India's highest priority. We are providing all necessary support to those affected and are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities as part of the investigation," the airline said.

The cause of the turbulence-related incident is under investigation.