Singapore Airlines flight hittes by Severe turbulence kills passenger, injures dozens more

Singapore Airlines Flight SQ308 was struck by severe turbulence during its journey from Singapore to London, resulting in the tragic death of one passenger and injuries to dozens more. The incident occurred as the aircraft was flying over the Bay of Bengal, causing sudden and violent movements that caught passengers and crew off guard.

Severe turbulence is a rare but dangerous occurrence that can pose serious risks to both passengers and crew members. Despite advancements in technology and weather forecasting, turbulence remains a challenging phenomenon to predict and avoid entirely.

Singapore Airlines said 18 people needed to be hospitalized, and another 12 were treated in local hospitals. The remaining passengers and crew were being examined and treated.

There were 211 passengers from 17 countries, including the U.S., and 18 crew members on board the flight when the incident occurred.

A later statement from Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital said 71 people had been treated there, including six who were severely injured. No explanation of the discrepancy in numbers was available.

Tracking data captured by FlightRadar24 and analyzed by The Associated Press show Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 cruising at an altitude of 37,000 feet (11,300 meters).

Turbulence could become more frequent and severe as climate change affects the world, according to a June 2023 study. Between 1979 and 2020, severe or greater turbulence increased by 55% for flights across the North Atlantic, the study found, and the authors said it's expected to worsen because of climate change. "An invisible form called clear-air turbulence (CAT) is predicted to become more frequent because of climate change," the authors wrote.

While cases like those aboard Flight SQ321 are relatively uncommon, air travelers should be prepared to experience more turbulence in the years to come, Nelson said.

And "as our climate changes, severe and clear air turbulence instances are on the rise," she explained. "Always follow crew instructions and wear your seat belt whenever seated. It is a matter of life and death."

The flight operator expressed its “deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. We deeply apologize for the traumatic experience that our passengers and crew members suffered on this flight.”

Boeing has said it is in touch with the Singaporean carrier and is “ready to support them.” The manufacturer is deferring further questions to the airline and local authorities.

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Sarah H

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