Three Indians among passengers on turbulent Singapore Airlines flight.
Three Indian nationals were among the passengers on a Singapore Airlines flight that encountered severe turbulence, causing the aircraft to descend 6,000 feet in about three minutes. Tragically, a 73-year-old British man, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, likely died from a heart attack during the incident, as reported by Kittipong Kittikachorn, the General Manager of Suvarnabhumi Airport.
The sudden drop caused panic among passengers, leading to injuries despite their seat belts being fastened. Emergency protocols were activated immediately, and the flight crew provided first aid to the injured passengers. Upon landing, medical teams were on standby to attend to those needing urgent care.
Singapore Airlines expressed condolences to the family of the deceased passenger and committed to assisting all affected passengers. The airline is coordinating with local authorities to investigate the cause of the extreme turbulence and ensure the safety of future flights.
Relatives seeking information about the passengers can contact Singapore Airlines hotlines at +65 6542 3311 (Singapore), 1800-845-313 (Australia), and 080-0066-8194 (United Kingdom). The airline is providing support services to passengers and their families, including counseling and medical assistance.
This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols to minimize injuries during unexpected events. Singapore Airlines reassured the public of its commitment to passenger safety and ongoing efforts to enhance flight safety measures.
The turbulence, experts suggest, could be a result of cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal moving northeastwards.
Authorities have not released the names or nationalities of the injured passengers and crew.
Singapore Airlines was using a 16-year-old Boeing 777-300ER model for the SQ321 service hit by severe turbulence. A team from Singapore Airlines arrived in Bangkok to support the airline colleagues and local authorities on the ground.
The crew’s quick response and the emergency protocols in place played a crucial role in managing the situation and ensuring that passengers received the necessary medical attention promptly. Singapore Airlines continues to work diligently to support those affected and to understand the factors that contributed to this severe turbulence incident.
Singapore’s new Prime Minister Lawrence Wong extended his condolences to the family members and loved ones of the deceased. He expressed sadness and shock over the incident, noting the unfortunate timing on Vesak Day. He assured that Singapore is working closely with Thai authorities to support passengers and crew.
US aircraft manufacturer Boeing also extended condolences to the family of the deceased British man aboard SQ321. Boeing stands ready to support Singapore Airlines regarding flight SQ321.
However, in severe cases, turbulence can throw passengers around the cabin, causing severe injuries and occasionally death, as reported by CNN.