Singapore Airlines Flight Hit by Severe Turbulence: 3 Indians Among Passengers
A Singapore Airlines flight experienced a harrowing incident when it encountered “sudden extreme turbulence” over the Irrawaddy Basin, leading to a 6,000-foot drop in just three minutes. This terrifying event left a 73-year-old British man dead, likely from a heart attack, and more than two dozen other passengers injured. Among the 229 people aboard, at least three were Indian nationals.
The flight, SQ321, was traveling from London Heathrow to Singapore on May 20 when it hit the turbulence about 10 hours after departure. The pilot declared a medical emergency and diverted the aircraft to Bangkok, where it landed the following day, May 21. Singapore Airlines confirmed multiple injuries and one fatality in a statement on Facebook.
Out of the 229 people on board, 18 individuals were hospitalized, with another 12 receiving treatment at hospitals. The remaining passengers and crew were examined and treated as needed at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok.
The nationalities of the passengers included a diverse group: 56 from Australia, 2 from Canada, 1 from Germany, 3 from India, 2 from Indonesia, 1 from Iceland, 4 from Ireland, 1 from Israel, 16 from Malaysia, 2 from Myanmar, 23 from New Zealand, 5 from the Philippines, 41 from Singapore, 1 from South Korea, 2 from Spain, 47 from the United Kingdom, and 4 from the United States.
Singapore Airlines extended its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and apologized for the traumatic experience endured by passengers and crew. The airline is providing all necessary assistance during this difficult time and is working closely with local authorities in Thailand. A team from Singapore Airlines is on its way to Bangkok to offer additional support.
Singapore’s new Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, expressed his condolences and assured that Singapore is working closely with Thai authorities to support the passengers and crew. He emphasized that the country is doing everything possible to ensure the safety and recovery of those affected.
The aircraft involved in the incident was a 16-year-old Boeing 777-300ER. Boeing has also extended its condolences and is in contact with Singapore Airlines to offer support.
Turbulence is a common occurrence during flights, but severe turbulence, like that experienced on SQ321, can cause serious injuries and even fatalities. While light and moderate turbulence might cause discomfort and unsecured items to move, severe turbulence can throw passengers around the cabin, leading to significant injuries.
Relatives seeking information about the incident can contact Singapore Airlines via hotlines provided for Singapore, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
This tragic incident highlights the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of safety measures to protect passengers during such unexpected events.
