Passengers on Singapore Airlines’ flight SQ321 last month who experienced severe turbulence have been awarded compensation. Customers with minor illnesses received $10,000, according to a Tuesday statement from the airline; individuals with severe injuries are urged to talk about individualised compensation plans. A $25,000 advance payment has been made for passengers with long-term medical needs; this payment will be included in the final settlement. It is intended to satisfy their urgent financial needs.
On May 20, while flying over Myanmar on route from London to Singapore, flight SQ321 experienced turbulence. A 73-year-old passenger who was suspected of having a heart attack died as a result of the severe turbulence, and numerous others were hurt. The aircraft was diverted to Bangkok, Thailand, where wounded travelers were treated. A hospital in Bangkok received injury reports that included fractures to the skull, brain damage, and spinal cord injuries. Twenty passengers were still in hospitals as of June 4.
The turbulence, according to passengers, was sudden and intense, throwing unbuckled occupants against the cabin ceiling, which cracked multiple times. Because of this incidence, seatbelt usage has come to attention, highlighting the importance of wearing a seatbelt even when on a routine cruise. A early study from Singapore’s Transport Ministry stated that the turbulence quickly changed the pull of gravity, resulting in a 54-meter drop in height.
All passenger airfares for the affected trip would be refunded by Singapore Airlines, in addition to giving compensation for injuries. The airline also confirmed that reimbursement for delays will be provided in accordance with British and European Union laws. There were 211 passengers on the flight at the time of the incident, including 18 staff members and a large number of Australians, Britons, or Singaporeans.
The “developing convective activity” over Myanmar, which alluded to the impending bad weather, was linked to the turbulence. Although it hasn’t provided an update on how many passengers are still in need of medical care, Singapore Airlines is currently helping those who were impacted by the incident.