By Trend News Line 2024-05-22 04:16:31.
A Singapore Airlines flight encountered severe turbulence over the Indian Ocean on Tuesday, resulting in the tragic death of one passenger and injuries to at least 30 others, the airline confirmed. The Boeing 777-300ER, en route to Singapore, experienced a rapid descent of about 6,000 feet in just three minutes before making an emergency landing at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.
The deceased passenger, a 73-year-old British man, is believed to have suffered a fatal heart attack during the turbulent episode, according to Kittipong Kittikachorn, the general manager of Bangkok airport. Among the 211 passengers and 18 crew members onboard, three were identified as Indian nationals. The largest number of passengers hailed from Australia with 56 passengers, followed by the United Kingdom with 47 individuals.
Videos capturing the harrowing incident have since circulated online, showing passengers in a state of panic as the aircraft was violently jolted by the turbulence. The chaotic scenes depict passengers shouting and crying out amidst the turbulence that enveloped the cabin in near darkness.
In response to the tragic event, Singapore Airlines issued a statement extending their condolences to the family of the deceased passenger and confirming that medical assistance was being provided to the injured individuals. The airline assured that they are working closely with Thai authorities and have dispatched a team to Bangkok to offer additional support to those affected.
Analysis by The Associated Press revealed that the flight was cruising at 37,000 feet before rapidly descending to 31,000 feet over a span of three minutes. The aircraft maintained this lower altitude for less than 10 minutes before diverting to Bangkok. The sharp descent occurred over the Andaman Sea, near Myanmar, with the aircraft transmitting a squawk code of 7700 to signal an international emergency.
Boeing, the manufacturer of the aircraft, expressed their solidarity with Singapore Airlines and offered their support in the aftermath of the incident. The company extended their deepest condolences to the family of the deceased passenger and conveyed their thoughts to the passengers and crew affected by the turbulence. Singapore Airlines reaffirmed their commitment to cooperating with relevant authorities in the ongoing investigation into the incident.
As the aviation industry grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of preparedness in handling emergencies. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this distressing ordeal.
(With inputs from agencies).
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