In the aftermath of a severe turbulence incident, Singapore Airlines (SIA) CEO Goh Choon Pong expressed his deepest gratitude to the airline’s staff for their professionalism and dedication. The incident, which occurred on May 21st, 2024, involved flight SQ321 en route from London to Singapore.
The plane, a Boeing B777-ER, encountered unexpected turbulence over the Indian Ocean. Sadly, one passenger, a 73-year-old British man named Geoff Kitchen, passed away from a suspected heart attack. Dozens of others sustained injuries and received treatment at a hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, where the flight diverted as an emergency precaution.
Commending Staff Heroism
“The last five days have been immensely challenging for everyone at Singapore Airlines” stated Mr. Goh in a memo obtained by the BBC. He went on to commend the crew’s swift response and teamwork during this critical situation. “Our agility, dedication, and team spirit were evident during this period,” he said, expressing his sincere appreciation to the staff “from the bottom of my heart.“
Passenger Care and Ongoing Investigation
The memo also highlighted SIA’s ongoing support for those affected. Passengers and crew who weren’t seriously injured were flown back to Singapore, and the airline continues to assist injured parties. Mr. Goh’s personal visit to the hospital in Bangkok underscores the company’s commitment to passenger and staff well-being.
Following the incident, Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, extended his condolences to the victim’s family and confirmed a thorough investigation by the country’s Transport Safety Investigation Bureau.
Safety Record Remains Strong
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel. However, it’s important to note that Singapore Airlines boasts an exceptional safety record, consistently ranking among the world’s safest airlines. The last fatal accident involving SIA occurred over two decades ago in 2000.
This event highlights the crucial role that airline staff plays in ensuring passenger safety and well-being, especially during emergencies. Singapore Airlines’ commitment to its staff and passengers is evident in their response to this unfortunate event.