Singapore Airlines tragedy: Will it change seatbelt rules? Airlines to review many guidelines

After the severe turbulence on board the Singapore International Airlines Flight from London to Singapore, the airline has tightened certain rules dealing with turbulences. The incident which left one British citizen dead and more than 100 passengers injured in different states had prompted a safety review by the airline and other major airlines across the world.

What strict rules will be enforced?

The airline is reviewing the seatbelt rules. Presently, the seatbelt is switched off after take-off and is switched on again just before landing. This rule is being reviewed. Further, in addition to the seatbelt rule, the airline has announced the suspension of hot beverage service when the seatbelt sign is on.

The crew will also suspend the meal services during this time when the seatbelt sign is on. The airline has announced that it shall continue to review all safety guidelines and it emphasizes the importance of the safety of passengers and the crew members on board. The airline announced that it is adopting a “more cautious approach” in the coming days.


These rules come as scientists have predicted a greater number of incidents involving turbulence due to climate change. It has been said that passengers are reluctant to be strapped to their seatbelt even when safety is given paramount importance.

What happened on SQ321?

The plane was flying from London's Heathrow Airport to Singapore's Changi International Airport. It is believed that the aircraft ran into air turbulence when it was flying over the Irrawaddy basin in Myanmar. Due to the deaths and injuries suffered by the passengers, the flight made a landing at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok.

Many passengers were injured. More than 100 people were injured and were being treated at a hospital near the airport in Bangkok. The injuries are believed to be severe. One such Australian passenger is believed to have injured her spinal cord.

Scary experience

Many passengers described the scary experience of having been thrown upwards and hitting the ceiling of the aircraft before crashing down with utmost force. The Doctors treating the patients described the injuries as severe and not those that are sustained by normal air turbulences.

FAQs:

1. Who is the CEO of the Singapore International Airlines?
Goh Choon Phong is the CEO of the airline. He has recently apologized for the air turbulence incident.

2. Which is the first commercial airline in Asia?
Philippines Airlines is the first commercial airline in Asia. It commenced its operations in 1941.