A Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore encountered severe turbulence, leading to a tragic incident where a 73-year-old British man died and dozens of passengers were injured. The turbulence struck while the aircraft was cruising over Myanmar, forcing an emergency diversion to Bangkok.
The Events Unfold
The flight was about ten hours into its journey when it hit an air pocket during breakfast service. The severe turbulence caused the plane to shake violently, sending unbelted passengers and crew flying around the cabin. This prompted the pilot to declare a medical emergency and divert the plane to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Overhead Cabin Damage: Photos from inside the aircraft showed significant damage, with large gashes in the overhead cabin panels and personal items scattered across the cabin.
Passenger Testimonies: Dzafran Azmir, a passenger on the flight, described the sensation of the plane tilting upwards followed by a dramatic drop, causing many passengers to hit the ceiling.
Casualties and Injuries
The incident resulted in the death of a 73-year-old British man, suspected to have suffered a heart attack during the turbulence. Additionally, 30 others were injured, with seven in critical condition, suffering from severe head injuries.
Injured Passengers: The exact number of injured passengers varies, with some reports indicating that 18 were hospitalized and 12 treated in hospitals. Samitivej Hospital reported treating 71 passengers, including six with severe injuries.
Airline and Official Responses
Singapore Airlines expressed its deepest condolences to the deceased passenger’s family and apologized for the traumatic experience faced by those on board.
Official Statements: “Singapore Airlines offers its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. We deeply apologize for the traumatic experience that our passengers and crew members suffered on this flight,” the airline said.
Investigation and Support
The Singapore Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) will send investigators to Bangkok to probe the incident. Boeing has also offered support and extended condolences, while stating it is coordinating with Singapore Airlines and local authorities.
Understanding Turbulence
Turbulence-related incidents are the most common type of airline accidents, often leading to serious injuries but rarely causing aircraft damage. A study by the National Transportation Safety Board found that turbulence accounted for over a third of reported airline accidents from 2009 to 2018.
Singapore Airlines’ Safety Record
Singapore Airlines is known for its high safety standards, but it has experienced accidents in the past. The last major incident was in 2000, involving a crash in Taipei that resulted in 83 fatalities. Despite this, the airline maintains a strong reputation within the industry.
Moving Forward
As investigations proceed, Singapore Airlines and aviation authorities will likely review protocols and safety measures to prevent future incidents. This tragic event underscores the importance of always wearing seatbelts during flights, even when conditions appear calm.
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Written By Joe Brens