Singapore Airlines has adjusted its in-flight safety protocols and route planning following a turbulence incident that resulted in one fatality and numerous injuries, the airline and flight data reported.
In response to the recent turbulence-related incident, Singapore Airlines has implemented a more cautious approach, including refraining from serving hot beverages or meals when the seatbelt sign is illuminated, as stated in a communication to Singapore broadcaster Channel News Asia.
“SIA will continue to assess our procedures, prioritizing the safety of our passengers and crew,” the airline stated.
The incident involved flight SQ321 from London to Singapore, operating on a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members. Following the turbulence encounter, which caused passengers and crew to be thrown about the cabin, the flight diverted to Bangkok for an emergency landing on Tuesday.
Since the incident, Singapore Airlines has adjusted its flight routes for the London-Singapore route, opting to avoid the airspace over the part of Myanmar where the turbulence occurred. Flight tracking data indicates the airline has rerouted flights over the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea.
Photographs from inside the aircraft revealed damage to overhead cabin panels, dislodged oxygen masks, and scattered luggage. Reports from passengers described injuries, including head trauma from impacts with cabin fixtures.
As of late Thursday, May 23, 46 passengers and two crew members remained hospitalized in Bangkok, with 20 individuals in intensive care due to injuries including spinal cord, brain, and skull injuries, according to officials from Bangkok’s Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital.
Singapore Airlines, known globally for its high standards in safety and service, has not experienced major incidents in recent years.
