Singapore: In a harrowing incident on May 21, Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321, en route from London to Singapore, encountered severe turbulence over the Irrawaddy Basin, leading to an emergency landing in Bangkok and multiple injuries among passengers and crew. The sudden extreme turbulence, which struck the Boeing 777-300ER at an altitude of 37,000 feet approximately 10 hours into the flight, resulted in spinal cord injuries for twenty-two passengers and brain and skull injuries for six individuals.
The Straits Times reported that twenty of the injured remain in intensive care at Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, though none of the cases are life-threatening. Dr. Adinun Kittiratanapaibool, the hospital’s director, confirmed that the patients range in age from an 83-year-old to a two-year-old child who suffered a concussion.
Out of the 211 passengers and 18 crew members aboard, nearly 60 were injured due to the incident. Currently, forty-six passengers and two crew members are receiving medical attention in the Thai capital. Singapore Airlines, in a Facebook update, stated that sixty-five passengers and two crew members remained in Bangkok as of 9:31 pm on May 23.
The airline’s chief executive, Goh Choon Phong, has been actively involved in the aftermath, meeting with affected individuals and their families to offer support and address their concerns. Singapore Airlines has also arranged for the travel of family members and loved ones of the injured to Bangkok.
In a commendable display of corporate responsibility, customer care representatives—trained staff volunteers—have been deployed to keep passengers informed and provide necessary assistance during this challenging time. The airline has expressed gratitude towards the medical staff at Bangkok Hospital, Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, and Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital for their care of the injured passengers and crew.
The incident has brought to light the risks associated with air travel and the importance of swift and compassionate response in the face of adversity. Singapore Airlines’ commitment to the well-being of its passengers and crew is evident in its ongoing efforts to support those affected by this unfortunate event.
