A Singapore Airlines flight traveling from London to Singapore (SQ321) experienced severe turbulence on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024, leaving passengers shaken and some injured. At least 30 people were injured, with some sustaining broken arms. A 73-year-old British passenger tragically died during the flight. The turbulence caused significant damage inside the plane, including collapsed ceiling panels and luggage compartments. The incident occurred during the flight’s cruise phase, leading to an emergency landing in Bangkok.
According to reports, the aircraft encountered a patch of intense turbulence, causing a sudden and dramatic drop in altitude. Passengers described the experience as a ‘rollercoaster ride’ and reported being thrown around the cabin.
‘It was terrifying,’ said a passenger on the flight. ‘We were all thrown around, and things were flying everywhere. It felt like the plane was going to break apart.’
The flight crew remained calm and professional throughout the ordeal, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew members. They quickly implemented emergency procedures and provided medical assistance to those who needed it.
Incident Details
Flight SQ 321 was flying at high altitude when it encountered severe clear-air turbulence (CAT). This type of turbulence is particularly dangerous as it occurs in cloudless regions and cannot be detected by onboard radar systems. The sudden and violent air movements caused significant disruption inside the cabin, throwing unbelted passengers and loose items around.
Loss of Life and Injuries
The incident resulted in a devastating loss of life. A 73-year-old British man reportedly passed away, possibly due to a heart attack triggered by the turbulence. Dozens of other passengers sustained injuries, with some requiring hospitalization.
Emergency Landing in Bangkok
The Boeing 777 encountered the extreme turbulence over the Indian Ocean, prompting a sudden drop of approximately 6,000 feet. The pilots reacted swiftly, declaring a medical emergency and diverting the flight to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, where it landed safely.
Singapore Airlines’ Response
Singapore Airlines expressed their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and offered support to the injured passengers. The airline reiterated their commitment to passenger safety and a thorough investigation into the incident.
Conclusion
This tragic incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety protocols during flights and highlights the unpredictable nature of air travel. Singapore Airlines and aviation experts are committed to understanding and mitigating the risks associated with clear-air turbulence to enhance passenger safety.