Thai authorities say man, 73, probably had heart attack, and seven are critically injured as passengers describe ‘dramatic drop’.
A British passenger has died and seven people have been critically injured after a flight from London to Singapore was hit by turbulence. Passengers onboard the Singapore Airlines plane told of a “dramatic drop” that launched those not wearing a seatbelt into the cabin ceiling.
The airline said the Boeing 777 carrying 211 passengers, mostly from Australia, Britain, New Zealand or Singapore, and 18 crew members encountered severe turbulence on its way from Heathrow. The aircraft was diverted to Bangkok, where it landed at 3.45pm local time (0945 BST) on Tuesday.
According to Thai authorities, the British passenger who died had a heart condition and probably had a heart attack. He was 73 and travelling with his wife. His identity has yet to be released. Scientists have warned of increased turbulence, particularly “clear air turbulence” which is harder to detect or forecast, as global heating warms air at higher altitudes and makes weather more unpredictable.
In a statement, the airline said: “Flight SQ321 encountered sudden extreme turbulence over the Irrawaddy basin … The pilot declared a medical emergency and diverted the aircraft to Bangkok. “Singapore Airlines offers its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. We deeply apologise for the traumatic experience that our passengers and crew members suffered on this flight. We are providing all necessary assistance during this difficult time. We are working with our colleagues and the local authorities in Thailand to provide the necessary assistance.”
Rawr
Article URL : https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/may/21/severe-turbulence-london-to-singapore-flight