On May 20, 2024, a Singapore Airlines flight encountered severe turbulence over the Irrawaddy basin, resulting in one passenger’s death and numerous injuries. The airline has since offered compensation to affected passengers.
The Boeing 777 jet, en route from London to Singapore, experienced sudden turbulence, prompting it to divert to Thailand. Among the 211 passengers and 18 crew on board, a 73-year-old British man passed away from a suspected heart attack, while several others suffered injuries, including spinal, brain, and bone damages.
Singapore Airlines has announced a compensation package for affected passengers. Those with minor injuries will receive $10,000, while those with more severe injuries requiring long-term medical care will receive an advance payment of $25,000, in addition to other benefits tailored to their specific circumstances.
Additionally, the airline will provide full airfare refunds to all passengers on the flight and delay compensation in accordance with relevant regulations. Immediate financial aid of 1,000 Singapore dollars was already given to each passenger, covering medical expenses and facilitating travel arrangements for family members.
Preliminary investigations by Singapore’s Transport Ministry revealed that the aircraft experienced significant fluctuations in g-force, likely causing injuries to unbuckled passengers during the turbulence. The incident occurred during meal service, with many passengers not wearing seat belts, leading to scenes of chaos and distress.
While the cause of the turbulence remains uncertain, such incidents underscore the risks associated with air travel, particularly clear air turbulence, which can occur unexpectedly. According to aviation safety reports, turbulence accounts for a significant portion of airline accidents and injuries globally.
As authorities continue to investigate the incident, Singapore Airlines has emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and support, offering comprehensive assistance to those affected by the unfortunate event.
