Singapore Airlines Strengthens Seatbelt Policy Post Deadly Turbulence

Photo : Reuters

Singapore Airlines has announced stricter seatbelt regulations following a tragic incident on flight SQ321, where passengers and crew endured serious injuries including skull, brain, and spine injuries during intense turbulence. The flight, en route from London to Singapore with 211 passengers and 18 crew members, was compelled to make an emergency landing in Bangkok after encountering severe turbulence.

Flight tracking data revealed a rapid descent of 1,800 meters (6,000 feet) within minutes, catching passengers off guard with the suddenness of the turbulence. Consequently, 48 individuals remain hospitalized in Bangkok for treatment.

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In response to the incident, Singapore Airlines has implemented a more cautious approach to turbulence. The carrier has suspended hot beverage and meal services when the seat belt sign is illuminated, prioritizing passenger safety.

Investigations into the cause of the turbulence have commenced, with teams from Singapore and the United States collaborating with Thai authorities. Air safety experts caution that passengers often underestimate the importance of wearing seatbelts, leaving them vulnerable during unexpected turbulence. Additionally, scientists attribute the worsening phenomenon of clear air turbulence to climate change.

The severity of injuries sustained during the incident is unprecedented, as described by the director of Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin hospital. Passenger Keith Davis recounted the chaos onboard, detailing his wife's severe spinal injury and paralysis following the turbulence.

Upon landing in Bangkok, emergency responders swiftly attended to the injured, transporting them to awaiting ambulances. Images from inside the aircraft depict a scene of disarray, with debris strewn across the cabin and oxygen masks dangling from the ceiling.

Singapore Airlines CEO, Goh Choon Phong, has extended apologies for the distressing experience and offered condolences to the family of the deceased passenger, a 73-year-old British man.

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