Singapore Airlines flight en route from London to Singapore was struck by severe turbulence, resulting in one fatality and at least 71 injuries. The incident occurred on Flight SQ321, a Boeing 777–300ER, early today as the aircraft traversed the Indian Ocean.
The flight, which took off from London Heathrow Airport at 10:55 PM GMT on May 20, encountered unexpected severe turbulence approximately four hours into its journey. The sudden turbulence threw passengers and crew members around the cabin, causing a chaotic scene and leading to numerous injuries.
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Emergency Response and Injuries
Upon landing at Singapore Changi Airport at 7:45 PM local time, the flight was met by emergency medical teams. Tragically, one passenger, whose identity has not yet been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. According to Singapore Airlines, the fatality resulted from injuries sustained during the turbulence.
Among the injured, 71 passengers and crew members were treated for a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more serious conditions such as fractures. Twenty-five of the injured were transported to local hospitals for further medical attention. The airline has committed to providing all necessary support to the affected individuals and their families.
Statements and Investigation
Singapore Airlines released a statement expressing deep regret over the incident:
We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained on Flight SQ321. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those affected. We are providing all necessary assistance to our passengers and crew.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has launched an investigation into the incident, focusing on the unexpected nature of the turbulence and the flight’s adherence to safety protocols. The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) has also been engaged to provide a detailed weather report for the flight’s path.
This is the moment a flight attendant was thrown to the ceiling of the plane after violent turbulence.
— Sky News (@SkyNews) June 17, 2019
Ten people had minor injuries on the flight from Pristina to EuroAirport Basel.
For the latest videos, head here: https://t.co/hhDQuQ1top pic.twitter.com/q55fSGl1dQ
Passenger Accounts
Passengers described a harrowing experience as the turbulence hit without warning. “It felt like the plane dropped suddenly; everything went flying. People were screaming, and things were falling everywhere,” recounted Sarah Ling, a passenger on board.
Another passenger, Michael Chen, emphasized the abruptness of the event: “One moment we were fine, and the next, it was like being on a rollercoaster. I’ve never experienced anything like it.“
Aftermath of Singapore Airlines flight 321 from London to Singapore which had to divert to Bangkok due to severe turbulence. One death passenger and several injured. Blood everywhere, destroyed cabin. #singaporeairlines #sq321 pic.twitter.com/C2FgrVt9yv
— Josh Cahill (@gotravelyourway) May 21, 2024
Safety Measures and Protocols
Severe turbulence, though relatively rare, remains a significant hazard in aviation. Airlines implement strict safety protocols to mitigate risks, including keeping seatbelt signs on and advising passengers to remain seated during turbulent conditions. However, clear-air turbulence, which occurs without visible weather phenomena, can be particularly challenging to anticipate and avoid.
Looking Ahead
This incident underscores the unpredictability of air travel and the importance of continuous improvements in aviation safety measures. Singapore Airlines has pledged full cooperation with authorities to understand the causes and prevent future occurrences.
As investigations proceed, the aviation community will closely examine the findings to enhance safety protocols and better protect passengers and crew from similar incidents in the future.
