Singapore Airlines has offered compensation to passengers on a flight that encountered severe turbulence last month, resulting in dozens of injuries and one death, the carrier announced on Tuesday. Passengers with minor injuries have been offered $10,000, while those with serious injuries can negotiate compensation to meet their specific needs.
The airline stated, “Passengers medically assessed as having sustained serious injuries, requiring long-term medical care, and requesting financial assistance are offered an advance payment of $25,000 to address their immediate needs,” which will be included in any final settlement.
On May 21, Boeing 777-300ER which was carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members faced extreme turbulence. As a result, the aircraft had to make an emergency landing at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. The incident caused the passengers and the crew to be thrown against the cabin’s roof.
“Singapore Airlines is committed to providing help to the affected flyers of SQ321,” the company added. “Compensation offers along with the steps on how to avail the claims, should have been received to all the passengers via email.”
All the passengers of flight SQ321 including the one who did not get injured during the incident will also be given a full refund for their tickets. The refund of the tickets and delay compensation will be made as per UK and EU norms.
British passenger Geoff Kitchen who was 73 years old likely died of a heart attack during the turbulence whereas others have suffered severe spinal and brain injuries. An Australian dancer who is 52 years old has been left paralyzed below her chest because of spinal damage.
As stated by a report by Channel News Asia, no compensation details regarding the 18 crew members of the airline were given. The airline also provided each flyer with (Singapore Dollar) SGD 1,000 for conveyance and immediate medical expenses.
(With inputs from PTI)