In the wake of a tragic incident involving flight SQ321 traveling from London to Singapore, Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong issued a heartfelt apology on Wednesday.
Mr. Phong's video message acknowledged the "traumatic experience" for all 229 passengers and crew onboard the Boeing 777-300ER when it encountered severe turbulence at a cruising altitude of 37,000 feet. This resulted in the heartbreaking loss of one passenger and injuries to approximately 70 others.
There were some discrepancies in the initial reports regarding the number of injured. While Singapore Airlines stated 18 passengers were hospitalized and another 12 received treatment, Samitivej Hospital reported treating 71 passengers.
Despite the variation, Singapore Airlines expressed their deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and unwavering commitment to supporting all those affected. Mr. Phong emphasized their full cooperation with the ongoing investigation into the incident.
The airline revealed a more detailed sequence of events. Flight SQ321 departed London's Heathrow Airport on Monday and was en route to Singapore when the incident occurred. While the cabin crew served breakfast, the aircraft encountered an air pocket followed by severe turbulence. This prompted the pilots to make a swift decision to divert the flight and request an emergency landing at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The plane touched down safely at 3:45 pm local time on Tuesday.