Singapore Airlines Ceases Meal Service During Seatbelt Sign Activation Following Fatal Turbulence

In response to a recent fatal turbulence event, Singapore Airlines has implemented a new safety measure: discontinuing meal service when the seatbelt sign is activated. This proactive step aims to prioritize passenger safety during potentially turbulent conditions. By aligning with industry best practices and focusing on safety protocols, the airline reinforces its commitment to ensuring a secure and comfortable travel experience for all passengers.

SEOUL, May 24 (Reuters) - Singapore Airlines (SIAL.SI) has modified its in-flight seatbelt regulations and adjusted at least one flight route following a recent turbulence event that resulted in one fatality and numerous critical injuries, as reported by both the airline and flight data. 

The company is embracing a heightened level of vigilance regarding turbulence, which includes refraining from serving hot beverages or meals when the seatbelt sign is illuminated, as stated in a communication to Singapore's Channel News Asia.

"SIA remains committed to continually evaluating our procedures, prioritizing the safety of our passengers and crew above all else," the airline stated. However, the airline did not provide a response to a request for comment from Reuters. 

During the SQ321 London-Singapore flight, operated on a Boeing (BA.N) 777-300ER aircraft with 211 passengers and 18 crew, turbulence necessitated an emergency landing in Bangkok on Tuesday. Passengers and crew were thrown around the cabin, with some colliding with the ceiling.

Singaporean investigators have commenced analyzing data retrieved from the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder, as revealed by Singapore's Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat on Friday. The SQ321 route from London to Singapore has successfully completed two flights following the incident. 

Notably, it has avoided flying over the region of Myanmar where the turbulence incident took place approximately three hours before the intended landing. Tracking data indicates that the flight duration remains consistent despite the altered route.

Singapore Airlines reported that the aircraft experienced abrupt and severe turbulence on Tuesday. Tragically, a 73-year-old British passenger passed away, suspected to have suffered a heart attack. Images captured inside the plane depicted significant damage, including gashes in overhead cabin panels, dislodged oxygen masks and panels, and scattered luggage. 

According to a passenger, some individuals' heads struck the lights above the seats, resulting in broken panels.

By late Thursday, Singapore Airlines reported that 48 passengers and two crew members were hospitalized in Bangkok, while 19 others remained in the city. Of the 48 hospitalized passengers, twenty were still in intensive care, according to an official from Bangkok's Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital on Thursday. 

The injured individuals suffered from a combination of spinal cord, brain, and skull injuries. Despite this tragic incident, Singapore Airlines, renowned as a premier carrier and industry benchmark, had not experienced any significant incidents in recent years.

TURBULENCE

A surge in turbulence reports has ignited discussions about the potential link to climate change. A University of Reading report from the previous year indicated that turbulence could exacerbate with climate change. Professor Paul Williams, a co-author, emphasized the necessity for further research into climate change's impact on air turbulence. Despite this, advancements in technology have notably reduced turbulence-related fatalities over the past two decades. 

Geoffrey Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of Airlineratings.com, suggested that some airlines might reconsider their policies on seatbelt usage following the recent incident. While airlines are obligated to activate seatbelt signs during takeoff and landing, individual carriers have their protocols for managing midair turbulence. 

Thomas advocated for a more stringent approach, stating that airlines should mandate seatbelt fastening rather than merely recommending it. Norwegian Air has yet to discuss potential changes to its flights in response to the incident, according to a spokesperson. The turbulence experienced by the Singapore Airlines plane is considered highly uncommon on its primary routes from Nordic countries to European destinations. 

European airspace is densely trafficked, with frequent updates and sharing of wind and weather data, providing additional context.

Source: Reuters‍