What began as a routine journey from Phuket to Delhi turned into a frightening experience for passengers aboard an Air India flight on Tuesday when severe turbulence shook the aircraft, injuring 17 people, including four cabin crew members.

Passengers described scenes of chaos inside the plane as powerful jolts sent luggage crashing from overhead compartments and damaged parts of the cabin. Amid the turbulence, frightened travellers clung to their seats, prayed and tried to reassure one another as repeated announcements urged everyone to fasten their seatbelts.

According to videos shared online, some overhead lockers burst open during the turbulence, scattering baggage across the aisle. Several bags remained suspended from damaged compartments as the aircraft continued to shake.

One passenger, who recorded footage from inside the cabin, later described the incident as the most terrifying experience of her life. She urged travellers to keep their seatbelts fastened throughout flights, saying she witnessed passengers being thrown into the air and suffering injuries. For several moments, she feared the aircraft would not land safely.

Another traveller recounted how his father, who was seated in the aisle and drinking coffee, was suddenly lifted from his seat when the aircraft reportedly lost altitude abruptly. He said his father struck the ceiling before crashing onto the floor.

The passenger added that his mother sustained head injuries after hitting the overhead compartment, while debris from the damaged cabin allegedly struck her near the eye. His wife and two-year-old daughter were also thrown from their seats into the aisle, with the child suffering swelling and minor head injuries.

The family received initial treatment after landing and later travelled to Chandigarh. Describing the incident as "a second chance at life", the passenger said his five-year-old daughter was left deeply shaken by the ordeal.

Another passenger from Italy recalled seeing her sister thrown into the air while her mother suffered a head injury. She said the family genuinely believed they would not survive the flight.

Despite the panic, several passengers praised the crew and pilots for their efforts to maintain calm during the emergency. Some travellers have also called for a thorough investigation into the incident to improve passenger safety.

Following the aircraft's safe landing in Delhi, seven passengers were taken to Fortis Hospital in Vasant Kunj for medical examinations and treatment. The hospital confirmed that emergency teams were alerted in advance and that patients were assessed immediately upon arrival.

According to the hospital, doctors activated a "Code Yellow" protocol to coordinate medical care and ensure adequate resources were available. The injured passengers underwent diagnostic tests, including CT scans, MRIs and X-rays, depending on their condition.

Hospital officials said the passengers remain under observation while specialists continue to assess the extent of their injuries and determine the required treatment.