New Delhi: Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong issued a public apology on Wednesday following a tragic incident where a passenger died and about 70 others were injured due to severe turbulence on a flight from London to Singapore.
In a heartfelt video message, Goh Choon Phong expressed his deep regret over the traumatic experience faced by everyone on board flight SQ321. “We are very sorry for the traumatic experience that everyone on board the flight went through on Tuesday,” he said.
Incident Details
The flight, a Boeing 777-300ER, was en route from London to Singapore when it encountered sudden and extreme turbulence at an altitude of 37,000 feet. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members.
Casualties and Injuries
Reports regarding the number of injured passengers varied. Singapore Airlines stated that 18 passengers were hospitalized, with 12 still receiving treatment in hospitals. However, Samitivej Hospital, which attended to the victims, reported treating 71 passengers.
Immediate Response
Following the turbulence, the flight crew and medical personnel onboard provided immediate assistance to the injured passengers. Upon landing, emergency services were ready to transport those in need to nearby hospitals for further treatment.
CEO’s Apology
In his message, Goh Choon Phong emphasized the airline’s commitment to safety and support for the affected passengers and their families. “Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased and those injured. We are doing everything we can to provide support and assistance during this difficult time,” he stated.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of safety measures. Singapore Airlines has assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted to understand the cause of the turbulence and to prevent such incidents in the future.
Passengers and their families affected by this tragedy can expect continued support from the airline as they navigate this challenging time.
