Three Hydraulic Systems Fail on Air India Flight

An Air India flight carrying 145 passengers from Phuket to Delhi on August 4 encountered severe turbulence while flying at 36,000 feet. Three hydraulic systems reportedly stopped functioning almost simultaneously, causing the autopilot to disconnect. The aircraft suddenly descended, leaving 24 passengers injured. The hydraulic systems resumed functioning shortly afterward, allowing the aircraft to continue its journey and land safely in Delhi.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), in its preliminary investigation, also flagged another serious issue. Tests conducted on the pilot after the aircraft landed in Delhi reportedly detected the use of a prohibited psychoactive substance, which was subsequently confirmed through laboratory testing. The AAIB recommended appropriate action by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). However, the report has not established any link between the pilot’s conduct and the hydraulic system failure. The technical investigation is still underway, with further details expected in the final report.