Singapore Airlines has implemented stricter cabin-service guidelines in response to a recent incident on a flight from London, where one passenger tragically lost his life and many others were injured due to turbulence.
According to Bloomberg, the airline announced on Friday that it is adopting a more careful strategy in handling turbulence following an incident on Flight SQ321 earlier this week.
Singapore Airlines Tightens Sealtbelt Policy Following Deadly Turbulence Incident
The flight experienced a sudden loss of altitude and had to make an emergency landing in Bangkok. A tragic incident claimed the life of a man and left several passengers hospitalized in Thailand, enduring severe trauma such as spinal cord damage and head injuries.
The airline has announced that in-flight meal service will be temporarily paused whenever the seatbelt sign is turned on.
Additionally, the serving of hot drinks will also be suspended during this time, according to a statement from the airline. As the crew members prepare for the next phase, they will make their way back to their seats and securely fasten their seatbelts.
Singapore Airlines highlighted additional safety measures in place during inclement weather, which involve crew members securing loose items in the cabin and galley to reduce the risk of turbulence-related injuries.
Passengers are advised to promptly return to their seats and fasten their seatbelts, while those requiring assistance, such as individuals in the restroom, are closely monitored.
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Singapore Airlines Turbulence Reports
According to public records, authorities have looked into six other instances of turbulence on Singapore Airlines flights over the past twenty years.
These incidents resulted in injuries to both passengers and crew members, as reported by The Singapore Straits Times newspaper. Tuesday's incident was the sole occurrence that resulted in a loss of life.
The cause of Tuesday's severe turbulence remains uncertain. Clear air turbulence, the most dangerous type, is known to occur without any visible warning in the sky ahead.
Wind shear can manifest in delicate cirrus clouds or even in the absence of clouds near thunderstorms, as variations in temperature and pressure generate vigorous streams of swiftly moving air.
Singapore Airlines has expressed sincere regret for the incident. The CEO, Goh Choon Phong, has assured full cooperation in the investigation and personally visited the hospital to provide support to those affected, AP News reported.
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