Singapore Airlines Offers Compensation to Passengers Injured in Severe Turbulence Incident

Singapore Airlines has extended compensation offers to passengers who were on board a flight last month that encountered severe turbulence, resulting in dozens of injuries and one fatality. The airline announced on Tuesday that passengers with minor injuries have been offered $10,000, while those with serious injuries can discuss tailored compensation to meet their specific needs.

The  turbulence incident occurred on flight SQ321 from London to Singapore on May 20, as the aircraft was flying over Myanmar. The sudden and extreme turbulence caused the plane to drop 54 meters (177 feet) in altitude, leading to passengers and crew being thrown into the cabin ceiling, which cracked in several places. The flight was diverted to Bangkok, Thailand, where it made an emergency landing.

A 73-year-old passenger died of a suspected heart attack, and dozens of others sustained injuries, including spinal cord, brain, and skull injuries. As of June 4, more than two weeks after the incident, 20 passengers were still receiving medical care in Bangkok hospitals. Singapore Airlines has not yet provided an updated figure on the number of passengers still under medical care.

Singapore Airlines has offered an advance payment of $25,000 to passengers who have been medically assessed as having sustained serious injuries requiring long-term medical care and who have requested financial assistance. This advance payment is intended to address their immediate needs and will form part of any final settlement.

In addition to the compensation for injuries, the airline has announced that it will refund airfares for all passengers on board the flight. Passengers will also receive delay compensation in accordance with regulations in the European Union or Britain.

Why It Matters : The incident has brought attention to the importance of seatbelt practices during flights. Airlines typically allow passengers to undo their seatbelts during normal cruise conditions but recommend keeping them fastened. The severe turbulence experienced on flight SQ321 highlights the potential dangers of not adhering to this recommendation. The incident also underscores the need for airlines to have robust compensation and support mechanisms in place for passengers affected by such events.

A preliminary report by Singapore’s Transport Ministry indicated that a rapid change in gravitational force and the altitude drop likely caused passengers and crew to become airborne. The report suggested that the plane was flying over an area of "developing convective activity," a term referring to developing bad weather.

The flight had 211 passengers on board, including many Australians, British, and Singaporeans, along with 18 crew members. The incident has prompted discussions about the safety measures and protocols that airlines should implement to protect passengers during unexpected turbulence.

Singapore Airlines' response to the turbulence incident, including the compensation offers and the commitment to refund airfares, demonstrates the airline's efforts to support affected passengers. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of adhering to safety recommendations.

Key Takeaways

• Singapore Airlines has offered $10,000 to passengers with minor injuries and tailored compensation for those with serious injuries.
• An advance payment of $25,000 is available for passengers requiring long-term medical care.
• The turbulence incident on flight SQ321 resulted in one death and dozens of injuries.
• The incident has highlighted the importance of keeping seatbelts fastened during flights.
• Singapore Airlines will refund airfares and provide delay compensation to all passengers on the affected flight.