Singapore Airlines has announced compensation for passengers injured during a severe turbulence incident on flight SQ 321 over Myanmar. In a Facebook post, the airline stated it would pay $10,000 (£7,800) to those with minor injuries and provide “an advance payment of $25,000 to address their immediate needs” for those with more serious injuries, with further discussions to meet “their specific circumstances.”
A 73-year-old British passenger died, and dozens more were injured when the flight encountered turbulence and was diverted to Thailand in May. Singapore Airlines has not yet responded to a BBC News request for further information on how many people will be entitled to the payments.
Over a hundred passengers from SQ 321 were treated in a Bangkok hospital after the incident. Early investigations revealed that the plane rapidly accelerated up and down, dropping around 178ft (54m) in 4.6 seconds. Passengers reported that crew members and those not wearing seatbelts were hurled against the cabin ceiling.
The hospital in Bangkok treating the injured passengers reported cases of spinal cord, head, and muscle injuries. There were 211 passengers, including many Britons, Australians, and Singaporeans, and 18 crew members on board the Boeing 777-300ER at the time of the incident.
Singapore Airlines has offered a full fare refund to all passengers on the flight, including those who did not suffer injuries. Additionally, the airline stated that passengers would receive delay compensation in accordance with European Union or United Kingdom regulations. The airline also offered S$1,000 ($739; £580) to all passengers to cover immediate expenses and arranged for loved ones to fly to the Thai capital where requested.
Under international regulations, airlines must offer compensation when passengers are injured or die while on a plane. The incident has highlighted seatbelt practices, as airlines typically allow passengers to undo their belts during normal cruise conditions.
BBC
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