Singapore Airlines flight hits severe turbulence, one dead; probe underway
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Singapore: A Singapore Airlines flight traveling from London to Singapore experienced severe turbulence due to bad weather conditions, buffeting more than 140 passengers and crew around the cabin resulting in the death of one person and injuries to dozens. The flight diverted to Bangkok for an emergency landing and a relief flight carried the passengers from Bangkok, reaching Singapore early Wednesday morning.
Geoffrey Kitchen, a 73-year-old British passenger, likely died due to a heart attack on the flight. As many as 30 passengers are receiving treatment for their injuries in hospitals in Bangkok after Singapore Airlines (SIA) flight SQ321, operating from London (Heathrow) to Singapore, said Kittipong Kittikachorn, general manager of Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok.
Relevant authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident involving the flight in the stormy weather. Singapore Airlines stated on Wednesday that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.
According to reports, the Singapore Airlines airplane was cruising at 37,000 feet (11,300 meters). Shortly after 0800 GMT, the Boeing 777 rapidly and sharply pitched down to 31,000 feet (9,400 meters) within a three-minute period. The aircraft stayed at 31,000 feet for just under 10 minutes before rapidly descending further.
During a press conference at Bangkok's international airport, it was reported that seven people are in critical condition. A total of 53 passengers were injured, including the wife of the deceased and a crew member, according to airport officials.
The aircraft "suddenly dropped," and people who were not wearing seatbelts were thrown against the ceiling. Images shared on social media showed chaos inside the Boeing 777-300ER, with crockery and food strewn along the aisle of the cabin.