Singapore Airlines Compensates Passengers After Severe Turbulence Incident

Compensation for Injuries

Singapore Airlines has offered compensation to passengers who were on a flight that encountered severe turbulence last month. The airline said, "Passengers with minor injuries have been offered $10,000." For those with serious injuries, the airline will discuss an offer to meet their specific needs.

Serious Injury Compensation

The airline has also assisted passengers with serious injuries. They stated, "Passengers medically assessed as having sustained serious injuries, requiring long-term medical care, and requesting financial assistance are offered an advance payment of $25,000 to address their immediate needs." This advance payment will be part of the final settlement.

The Incident

The turbulence incident occurred on flight SQ321 from London to Singapore, which encountered extreme turbulence over Myanmar. A 73-year-old passenger died from a suspected heart attack, and dozens were injured. The flight diverted and landed in Bangkok, Thailand.

Passenger Experiences

Passengers reported that the crew and those not strapped in were thrown from their seats and hit the cabin ceiling, causing damage. A Bangkok hospital treating passengers noted injuries including the spinal cord, brain, and skull injuries.

Ongoing Medical Care

As of June 4, more than two weeks after the May 20 flight, 20 passengers were still receiving medical care in Bangkok hospitals. Singapore Airlines has not provided an updated figure but is closely monitoring the situation.

Refunds and Compensation

Singapore Airlines will refund airfares for all passengers on the affected flight. Additionally, passengers will receive delay compensation according to European Union or British regulations.

Preliminary Report Findings

A preliminary report by Singapore's Transport Ministry indicated that a rapid change in gravitational force and a 54-meter (177-foot) altitude drop likely caused the passengers and crew to become airborne. The report mentioned the plane was likely flying over an area with "developing convective activity," which refers to developing bad weather.

Safety Practices

The incident has highlighted seatbelt practices. While airlines typically allow passengers to unbuckle their seatbelts during normal cruise conditions, it is recommended to keep them on for safety. The flight had 211 passengers, including many Australians, British, and Singaporeans, along with 18 crew members.

-Prisha Jaiswal