Elderly Briton Passes Away, 7 Critically Injured in Plane Turbulence Incident
A flight from London to Singapore encountered severe turbulence that resulted in the death of a 73-year-old man, forcing the plane to make an emergency landing in Bangkok.
A 73-year-old British passenger passed away due to a suspected heart attack, and seven others sustained serious injuries when the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300ER hit severe turbulence while flying over the Bay of Bengal.
The aircraft was diverted to Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok, where officials reported that the deceased passenger likely suffered a heart attack.
Seven others were significantly injured, with dozens sustaining minor injuries. One passenger described the harrowing experience as a sudden drop mid-air that caused unsecured individuals to be thrown into the ceiling.
Singapore Airlines confirmed the incident, offering their condolences to the family of the deceased and stating that their priority is to assist all passengers and crew affected by the turbulence.
Airline Offers ‘Deepest Condolences’
The airline expressed deep sympathy for the family of the deceased passenger and pledged to provide necessary medical assistance and additional support in coordination with local authorities in Thailand.
Images shared on social media depicted the aftermath of the turbulence, showing debris scattered in the cabin and a flight attendant with a bloodied nose.
The flight, carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members, departed from Heathrow around 10:17 p.m. and landed in Bangkok at 3:45 p.m. local time, after experiencing a sudden drop in altitude.
Minister Chee Hong Tat of Singapore expressed sadness over the incident and stated that support is being offered to affected passengers and their families.
In a separate incident in June 2023, turbulence on a British Airways flight from Singapore to Heathrow led to two cabin crew members suffering broken legs.
‘Fatalities Are Rare’
Aviation experts emphasized that while turbulence is common, fatalities are rare. Design and training standards ensure aircraft can withstand severe turbulence, though unexpected encounters can still pose risks.
Seatbelt usage is crucial during flights, especially when advised by crew members, to mitigate the impact of sudden turbulence instances.
PA Media contributed to this report.
