1 dead, dozens injured when Singapore Airlines flight encounters extreme turbulence

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Watch: Injured passengers removed from Singapore Airlines flight after deadly turbulence

One person was killed and dozens of people were injured when a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore encountered severe turbulence on Monday, May 20, 2024.

BANGKOK – One person was killed and dozens of people were injured when a Singapore Airlines flight originating from London encountered extreme turbulence and was forced to divert to Thailand on Monday.

Singapore Airlines said in a Facebook post that flight #321, operating from London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR), was on its way to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) when it encountered the "sudden, extreme turbulence" over the Irrawaddy Basin about 10 hours into the flight at about 37,000 feet.

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The pilot then declared a medical emergency and diverted the flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok. 

"We can confirm that there were multiple injuries and one fatality on board the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft," the airline said.

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Watch: Singapore Airlines flight diverted after encountering severe turbulence

Video shows the emergency response to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok Tuesday after a Singapore Airlines flight was diverted when it encountered severe turbulence that left one person dead.

Singapore Airlines said 18 people needed to be hospitalized, and another 12 were treated in local hospitals. The remaining passengers and crew were being examined and treated.

There were 211 passengers from 17 countries, including the U.S., and 18 crew members on board the flight when the incident occurred.

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This graphic shows information on Singapore Airlines flight 321 which was diverted to Bangkok after encountering severe turbulence.

(FOX Weather)

"Singapore Airlines offers its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased," the airline said. "We deeply apologize for the traumatic experience that our passengers and crew members suffered on this flight. We are providing all necessary assistance during this difficult time."

A Singapore Airlines team is headed to Bangkok to provide additional assistance, and the airline said it was working with local authorities on the investigation.