Air India Phuket-Delhi flight’s pilot was on medication for sleep difficulty, slept 30-35 minutes during journey: Report
The Air India Phuket Delhi flight experienced an unusual incident when its pilot, who had been struggling with sleep difficulties, was found to be on
Air India Phuket Delhi Flight Pilot’s Sleep Struggle Revealed
Medication and Brief Rest During Critical Journey
Theindiapostdaily.com – The Air India Phuket Delhi flight experienced an unusual incident when its pilot, who had been struggling with sleep difficulties, was found to be on medication. The commander of this Air India Phuket Delhi flight service informed investigators that he had been receiving prescription drugs from his personal physician to help manage ongoing rest challenges. This revelation came after the aircraft encountered an unexpected descent of approximately 300 feet while passing over Odisha, which caused harm to several individuals aboard the plane.
According to reports, the pilot explained that adequate rest had eluded him during his stopover in Thailand. Personal matters had been contributing to his inability to sleep for a considerable period. While airborne, the pilot reportedly dozed off for roughly half an hour—specifically between 30 and 35 minutes. He later visited the lavatory before returning to his position standing behind the first officer, ensuring the flight continued smoothly despite the brief interruption.
Passenger Experience and Flight Operations
At the moment the turbulence struck, the first officer had control of the aircraft while the captain monitored operations from his seat. The Airbus A320, identified by registration VT-EXO, eventually regained stability and touched down without incident at Delhi airport. The disturbance affected 20 travelers and four members of the cabin crew during this unexpected event.
The Air India Phuket Delhi flight onboard were 137 passengers, which included three babies, alongside eight crew members consisting of two pilots and six flight attendants. Passengers described the experience as sudden but manageable, with the crew responding promptly to ensure everyone’s safety during the descent.
Investigation Findings and Pilot Screening
Initially, Air India characterized the episode as turbulence-related. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau are now examining what has been designated a serious incident. After landing, both pilots participated in standard screening for psychoactive substances—compounds such as alcohol, medications, or other agents capable of influencing alertness and decision-making.
The ministry announced that the captain’s preliminary screening required additional laboratory verification. Consequently, both pilots were taken off flying responsibilities until the investigation concluded. Since the rapid initial test produced a non-negative outcome, the captain needed to complete a second round of testing. This follow-up examination also returned a positive result, according to sources familiar with the confidential findings.
Technical Issues and Maintenance Alerts
A post-flight maintenance document, cited by ANI, uncovered multiple technical alerts concerning the aircraft’s hydraulic networks, flight control mechanisms, and autopilot functionality. The report for Airbus A320 VT-EXO documented recurring low-pressure notifications across the green, blue, and yellow hydraulic circuits.
Additionally, fluid levels appeared insufficient in both the yellow and blue reservoirs. The autopilot disconnected on two separate occasions during the flight, adding to the complexity of the situation. Further warnings encompassed faults in the left and right elevator flight controls, messages pertaining to engine anti-ice systems, and status indicators related to the right forward and aft emergency exit doors.
Additional failure entries highlighted problems with the hydraulic system, an elevator computer, and a high-pressure signal associated with the nose landing gear door and engine anti-ice valve arrangement. These technical issues, combined with the pilot’s sleep-related challenges, created a multifaceted incident that required thorough investigation.
What Passengers Should Know
For travelers who may have experienced similar situations or are concerned about flight safety, understanding the investigation process can provide reassurance. The Air India Phuket Delhi flight incident demonstrates how airlines prioritize thorough examinations when unusual events occur onboard.
The combination of technical warnings and pilot medication screening shows how multiple factors are evaluated to ensure passenger safety during air travel incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Air India Phuket Delhi flight to descend unexpectedly?
The aircraft encountered turbulence while passing over Odisha, combined with technical issues including autopilot disconnections and hydraulic system warnings that contributed to the 300-foot descent.
Was the pilot on medication during the flight?
Yes, the pilot was on prescription medication for sleep difficulties, which was confirmed through preliminary screening and subsequent laboratory verification tests.
How many people were affected by the incident?
The disturbance affected 20 travelers and four cabin crew members out of 137 passengers and eight crew members total on board the Air India Phuket Delhi flight.
What happened to the pilots after landing?
Both pilots were taken off flying responsibilities until the investigation concluded, as the captain’s preliminary screening required additional verification and returned a positive result.
Were there technical problems with the aircraft?
Yes, maintenance reports revealed multiple technical alerts including low-pressure notifications in hydraulic circuits, autopilot disconnections, and various flight control system warnings.
