Singapore Airlines has offered compensation to passengers of a recent flight that experienced extreme turbulence, resulting in the death of one passenger and injuries to dozens more. The Boeing 777 jet, carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew from London to Singapore, encountered sudden turbulence over the Irrawaddy basin on 20 May, causing people and items to be tossed around the cabin. A 73-year-old British man died from a suspected heart attack, while many others suffered spinal, brain, bone, and organ damage. Nineteen passengers remained hospitalized in Bangkok. The airline has offered $10,000 in compensation for passengers with minor injuries and has invited those with more serious injuries to discuss a personalized compensation offer when they are ready.
Passengers of the Singapore Airlines flight will be refunded, with those medically assessed to have sustained serious injuries receiving an advance payment of $25,000 for immediate needs, in addition to full airfare refunds. All passengers, regardless of injuries, will receive delay compensation in accordance with European Union or UK regulations. The airline has already provided each passenger with 1,000 Singapore dollars for immediate needs, covered medical expenses for injured passengers, and arranged for family members and loved ones to travel to Bangkok as needed. The compensation offered is aimed at helping passengers recover from their traumatic experience and meet their specific circumstances.
A preliminary investigation by Singapore’s Transport Ministry indicated that the extreme turbulence on the flight was characterized by significant swings in g-force within a short period, likely causing injuries to passengers who were not securely seated. The plane experienced a sudden drop of 54 meters in less than one second, causing occupants who were not buckled up to become airborne before falling back down. It is believed that the turbulence occurred during meal service when many passengers were not wearing seat belts. Passengers have described the frightening experience of the aircraft shaking, loose items flying around, and injured passengers lying helpless on the cabin floor.
The exact cause of the severe turbulence remains unclear, as turbulence can occur in various weather conditions, not just heavy storms. Clear air turbulence, which can happen in wispy cirrus clouds or even in clear skies near thunderstorms, is particularly dangerous. According to a report by the US National Transportation Safety Board, turbulence accounted for almost 40% of all accidents on larger commercial airlines between 2009 and 2018. The Federal Aviation Administration has reported 146 serious injuries from turbulence between 2009 and 2021. It is essential for airlines to take measures to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers during turbulent conditions.
Singapore Airlines’ willingness to compensate passengers for the traumatic episode on the flight demonstrates their commitment to passenger safety and well-being. By offering financial assistance, refunds, and other support, the airline aims to help passengers recover from their injuries and emotional distress. As investigations into the cause of the extreme turbulence continue, it is crucial for airlines and aviation authorities to prioritize safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Clear communication, adequate seat belt usage, and awareness of the potential dangers of turbulence are essential for ensuring the safety of all passengers during flight.