Remember that scary feeling when your flight hits unexpected bumps? We’ve all been there, gripping the armrests, hoping it’s just a little jolt. Now, imagine seeing a video of a plane shaking violently and being told it’s a brand new, terrifying event. That’s exactly what’s been happening online recently, but with a twist: the video is old, and the story is completely made up.
A Viral Mix-Up
Recently, a video showing a plane experiencing severe turbulence has been circulating widely on social media. People are sharing it with alarming captions, claiming it shows a recent, dangerous incident involving an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi in 2026. The visuals are dramatic, showing passengers and crew struggling as the aircraft pitches and rolls. Many viewers, understandably, were shocked and concerned by this supposed new event.
The Real Story Behind the Shakes
However, a fact-check has revealed that this video is not from 2026, nor is it related to a Phuket-Delhi flight. The footage actually dates back to 2018 and shows a real, but much older, incident of turbulence on an Air India flight from Amritsar to Delhi. The original video has been dug up and is now being misrepresented to create a false sense of a current, alarming event. This kind of misinformation can spread fear and confusion among travellers.
Why This Happens and What Experts Say
Experts in digital media and fact-checking explain that such ‘viral hoaxes’ are common. Old videos or images are often re-shared with new, sensationalist captions to gain attention or mislead people. They point out that it’s crucial for social media users to be critical of what they see and share. Before believing or spreading a dramatic story, especially one involving safety, it’s always best to look for reliable sources and verify the information. This particular incident highlights how easily old footage can be twisted to fit a new, fabricated narrative, causing unnecessary panic.
This misrepresentation serves as a stark reminder for all of us to be more vigilant online. In an age where information travels at lightning speed, distinguishing truth from fiction is more important than ever, especially when it comes to our safety and well-being.