A Singapore Airlines flight, SQ321 from London to Singapore, has experienced severe turbulence as it neared Bangkok, Thailand, causing a sudden drop from 37,000 feet to 31,000 feet within five minutes, according to FlightRadar24 data.
Singapore Airlines confirmed the death of one passenger.
“There are multiple injuries and one fatality on board the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.”
It’s now been revealed that the dead passenger was a 73 year old British passenger.
As of 7:50 PM on May 21, 18 individuals have been hospitalised, with another 12 receiving treatment at hospitals. The remaining passengers and crew are being examined and treated at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok.
Singapore Airlines has issued a statement saying that it is working with local authorities in Thailand to provide necessary assistance. A team from Singapore Airlines is also heading to Bangkok to offer additional support.
“There were a total of 211 passengers and 18 crew on board.
Singapore Airlines offers its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. We deeply apologise for the traumatic experience that our passengers and crew members suffered on this flight. We are providing all necessary assistance during this difficult time.”
During the incident, passengers were thrown from their seats during the chaotic and random drop in height. Mr. Dzafran Azmir, a 28 year old student on board, said the plane “suddenly started tilting up and there was shaking”.
“I braced myself, and then there was a dramatic drop. Everyone not wearing a seatbelt was launched into the ceiling.”
He added that some passengers hit their heads on the overhead baggage compartments, causing significant damage to the compartments and injuries to the passengers.
Another passenger, Andrew Davies, reported that the man who died was flying with his wife. Writing on X…
“Many others were injured, with some suffering head lacerations and experiencing bleeding ears, while their belongings were scattered all over the plane.”
Singapore Airlines stated that it is working with local authorities in Thailand to provide necessary assistance. A team from Singapore Airlines is also en route to Bangkok to offer additional support.
“We deeply apologise for the traumatic experience that our passengers and crew members suffered on this flight. We are providing all necessary assistance during this difficult time,” said the airline.
