DGCA starts probe into Durgapur flight turbulence; SpiceJet says flyers were told to remain seated

SpiceJet said the seat belt sign was on and multiple announcements were made by crew members asking passengers to remain seated

Aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on May 2 said it has instituted a multidisciplinary team to probe the severe turbulence incident on SpiceJet's Mumbai-Durgapur flight that left 15 people injured. SpiceJet said the seat belt sign was on and multiple announcements were made by crew members asking passengers to remain seated on its Mumbai-Durgapur flight on May 1.

"The turbulence encountered by a flight while landing in Durgapur, and the damage caused to the passengers is unfortunate. The DGCA has deputed a team to investigate the incident," said Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

"The matter is being dealt with utmost seriousness and deftness," he added.

"More details on the cause(s) will be shared once the investigation is completed," Mr Scindia noted.

A total of 15 people - 12 passengers and three cabin crew members - were injured in this flight due to severe turbulence, said officials of the DGCA. DGCA chief Arun Kumar said, "We have deputed a multidisciplinary team to carry out a regulatory investigation (into this incident)."

SpiceJet spokesperson said, "Eleven passengers travelling on SpiceJet flight SG-945 from Mumbai to Durgapur on May 1, which encountered severe turbulence during descent which unfortunately resulted in injuries to a few passengers, were hospitalised." Eight of those hospitalised have been discharged so far, the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said it is providing all possible help to the injured.