
(Scypre.com) – A tragic incident occurred on a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore, resulting in the death of a 73-year-old British man and injuries to over 30 other passengers. The Boeing 777-300ER faced severe turbulence, forcing an emergency landing in Bangkok at 15:45 local time (08:45 GMT).
Passengers described the terrifying moments when the aircraft suddenly dropped, causing people and objects to be violently tossed around the cabin. One passenger, Andrew from London, shared with BBC Radio 5 Live, “I was covered in coffee. During the few seconds of the plane dropping, there was an awful screaming and what sounded like a thud.” He recounted helping a woman “screaming in agony” who had a “gash on her head.”
The flight had 211 passengers and 18 crew members on board. Singapore Airlines expressed its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased man, whose name has not yet been released. Authorities in Bangkok believe the man likely suffered a heart attack. His wife was also hospitalized, but her condition remains unknown.
Passengers, including Andrew, are being kept in a special area of the Bangkok airport. Despite the frightening experience, Andrew mentioned, “I will get on another flight; these are very rare occurrences.”
Dzafran Azmir, a 28-year-old student, described the turbulence to Reuters: “The aircraft suddenly started tilting up and there was shaking. Very suddenly, there was a dramatic drop, so everyone seated and not wearing a seatbelt was launched immediately into the ceiling.” He noted that some passengers hit their heads on the overhead baggage cabins, causing damage to the cabin’s interior.
Allison Barker shared a harrowing account from her son, Josh, who was on the flight en route to Bali. He sent her a message saying, “I don’t want to scare you, but I’m on a crazy flight. The plane is making an emergency landing… I love you all.” Allison described the next two hours as “petrifying” until she heard from him again. Josh sustained minor injuries but was deeply shaken by the experience.
Singapore Airlines reported that 31 passengers were taken to the hospital, while the remaining passengers and crew were examined and treated at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok. The airline is collaborating with Thai authorities to provide medical assistance and has dispatched a team to Bangkok to support the passengers.
Singapore’s Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat expressed his condolences and assured that the government would assist the passengers and their families. “I am deeply saddened to learn about the incident on board Singapore Airlines flight SQ321 from London Heathrow to Singapore,” he stated on Facebook.
The exact cause of the turbulence is still unknown. Turbulence typically occurs when aircraft fly through clouds, but “clear air” turbulence, which cannot be detected on weather radar, can also be a factor. Aviation expert John Strickland noted that injuries from severe turbulence are relatively rare but can be dramatic and severe when they do occur. He emphasized the importance of keeping seat belts fastened throughout the flight.
Research indicates that climate change may increase the likelihood of severe turbulence in the future. Thai authorities have deployed ambulances and emergency teams to Suvarnabhumi Airport to provide necessary assistance.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on the well-being of the passengers and the support they need following this traumatic experience.