The Ministry of Civil Aviation has summoned outgoing Air India CEO Campbell Wilson as scrutiny of the airline intensifies following the August 4 Phuket-Delhi flight incident that left 17 passengers and crew members injured.
Wilson was called to the ministry headquarters on Tuesday, according to Ministry sources cited by India Today. The move followed a meeting involving the Civil Aviation Secretary and senior officials from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
What happened on AI2379?
Air India flight AI2379, an Airbus A320 flying from Phuket to Delhi, experienced a sudden loss of altitude of around 300 feet while cruising on August 4.
The aircraft was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, along with eight crew members. Air India initially described the incident as a brief turbulence-related event. The DGCA later classified it as a "serious incident" and handed the investigation to the AAIB.
13 passengers and four cabin crew members were taken to hospital after the aircraft landed. Air India said five passengers had subsequently been discharged, while others remained under treatment and observation.
The aircraft's Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder have been secured as part of the investigation.
Investigators examining aircraft systems
The inquiry is expected to look into the aircraft's systems, flight data and cockpit recordings to establish what happened during the flight.
Reports have pointed to possible technical issues, including an autopilot disconnect and hydraulic system concerns. These reports have not been officially confirmed.
Both pilots also underwent mandatory psychoactive substance screening after landing. The ministry said the pilot-in-command's initial test required confirmatory laboratory testing, with the final report awaited. The DGCA has de-rostered both pilots until the investigation is completed.
Airbus and France's aviation accident investigation agency BEA are expected to assist the AAIB probe under international aviation procedures.
Air India faces wider scrutiny
The government review comes as Air India deals with broader operational concerns, including aircraft shortages and disruptions, alongside the continuing fallout from last year's fatal Ahmedabad-London crash.
The airline is also preparing for a leadership change. Wilson, who resigned in April, is due to complete his notice period on September 30. Former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde Gebremariam has been named as his successor, although Air India has not announced when he will formally take charge.
Officials said the latest review will examine safety oversight, operational reliability and the airline's response mechanisms as the AI2379 investigation continues.