On May 21, 2024, Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 experienced severe turbulence. This incident, which resulted in numerous injuries and one fatality, has garnered significant attention and raised concerns about in-flight safety.
Flight SQ321 a Boeing 777-300ER, was en route from London Heathrow to Singapore Changi Airport. This is when it encountered unexpected and severe turbulence over the Andaman Sea. The turbulence was so intense that it forced the aircraft to make an emergency diversion to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. This was done in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the passengers and crew onboard.
The turbulence had devastating effects on those aboard. A 73-year-old British man tragically lost his life. It is being reported that the cause of the death might be a heart attack. Additionally, 71 passengers were injured, with several of them in critical condition. Passengers described harrowing scenes of head injuries and bleeding ears as the aircraft was violently shaken by the turbulence.
Immediate Response
Upon landing in Bangkok, the injured passengers received immediate medical attention. Singapore Airlines issued a statement expressing their deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. The airline has additionally also assured the public that the safety of their passengers and crew remains their utmost priority. Singapore Airlines also emphasized that they are conducting a thorough investigation to understand the causes of the incident and to implement measures that would prevent such occurrences in the future.
In the wake of this incident, Singapore Airlines has reiterated its commitment to passenger safety. This, however, is not the first incident involving a Boeing craft this year. Since the start of 2024, Beoing crafts have been making harrowing headlines. In addition to the deaths of the Boeing whistleblowers, the crafts have faced major faulty incidents throughout the year.
