Singapore Airlines has announced compensation for passengers who were injured during severe turbulence on flight SQ321 from London to Singapore last month. The airline is offering $10,000 to passengers with minor injuries and will negotiate higher payouts for those with more severe injuries.
The turbulence resulted in the death of a 73-year-old British man and caused significant injuries to several passengers and crew members. The flight, which was on a Boeing 777-300ER carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew, was diverted to Bangkok, where the injured received medical treatment.
In a statement on Tuesday, the airline detailed its compensation plans, including an advance payment of $25,000 for those with long-term medical needs. “For those who sustained more serious injuries… we have invited them to discuss a compensation offer to meet each of their specific circumstances when they feel well and ready to do so,” the airline said.
Additionally, Singapore Airlines will refund the airfares for all passengers and provide delay compensation in accordance with EU and UK regulations. The airline had previously given SG$1,000 ($740) to each passenger for immediate expenses and covered the medical costs of the injured.
Singapore’s transport ministry reported that the aircraft experienced a rapid altitude drop of 54 meters (177 feet) due to a sudden change in gravitational force while flying over Myanmar. The Transport Safety Investigation Bureau, along with experts from the US and Boeing, is investigating the incident.
“SIA remains committed to supporting the affected passengers who were on board SQ321,” the airline affirmed.
