Technical Glitch in Air India Flight Again? Why Did Passengers and Cabin Crew Suddenly Fall Ill?

Concerns over passenger safety have resurfaced after another technical malfunction was reported on an Air India flight. On Tuesday evening, several passengers and cabin crew members fell ill shortly after takeoff, forcing the aircraft to return to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. The incident has raised questions about Air India’s safety standards and the maintenance of its fleet.

What Happened Onboard?

The incident occurred on Air India flight AI-161, which was scheduled to fly from Delhi to London. According to reports, about 30 minutes after takeoff, multiple passengers and at least two cabin crew members began complaining of headaches, dizziness, nausea, and breathing difficulties. The cabin atmosphere changed suddenly, and panic spread among those onboard as some passengers reportedly fainted and children became visibly unwell.

One passenger described the situation: “At first, we thought it was just turbulence, but soon it became hard to breathe. The crew looked worried and started assisting people who were feeling sick.”

Suspected Cause: Oxygen Level Drop

Preliminary investigations suggest that there was a sudden drop in the cabin’s oxygen levels, possibly due to a malfunction in the cabin pressurization system. Experts believe that a technical fault in this system can lead to insufficient oxygen supply, causing passengers and crew to experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.

Although Air India has yet to issue an official statement specifying the root cause, sources within the airline indicate that a technical team has been assigned to thoroughly inspect the aircraft and identify what went wrong.

Immediate Response and Medical Assistance

Realizing the severity of the situation, the pilot declared a medical emergency and decided to return to Delhi. The aircraft landed safely, and medical teams were on standby to provide immediate assistance to those affected. All ill passengers and crew members were given prompt medical attention at the airport. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, and everyone was declared stable after treatment.

An Air India spokesperson confirmed, “The safety of our passengers and crew is our top priority. The flight was safely brought back to Delhi, and all necessary medical support was provided. We are investigating the incident in detail.”

Recurring Safety Concerns

This is not the first time Air India has faced technical issues aboard its flights. Over the past year, several incidents involving cabin pressure loss, engine malfunctions, and emergency landings have been reported. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has previously issued notices to the airline, urging stricter maintenance and safety checks.

Aviation experts warn that repeated incidents undermine passenger confidence and highlight the urgent need for regular aircraft inspections and crew training. “Airlines must ensure their fleets are in top condition and that staff are well-prepared for emergencies,” said an aviation analyst.

Passenger Reactions

The incident has left many passengers shaken. Some have taken to social media to express their concerns, calling for better transparency and stricter safety protocols. Families of those onboard have also demanded assurances from Air India regarding future measures to prevent such occurrences.

What’s Next?

The DGCA has launched an official investigation and requested a detailed report from Air India. The affected aircraft will remain grounded until a thorough inspection is completed and the fault is rectified. Meanwhile, Air India faces mounting pressure to improve its safety standards and restore passenger trust.

Conclusion

As air travel resumes normalcy post-pandemic, incidents like this highlight the critical importance of stringent safety measures and regular maintenance. Passengers expect not just comfort but also the highest standards of safety. It is now up to Air India and aviation authorities to ensure such incidents are not repeated and that the skies remain safe for all.