By Kimberley Kao


Singapore Airlines has offered compensation to passengers on board its London to Singapore flight last month that experienced one of the worst turbulence-related accidents in aviation history.

The airline has offered US$10,000 to passengers who sustained minor injuries from the May 21 incident. For individuals medically assessed to have sustained serious injuries, requiring long-term medical care and requesting financial assistance, the airline will offer an advance payment of US$25,000 to address their immediate needs, it said, which will be part of final compensations these passengers will receive.

Singapore Airlines Flight 321 encountered what the airline described as "sudden extreme turbulence" about 10 hours into the flight from London to Singapore and was diverted to Bangkok.

A 73-year-old British national died, likely from cardiac arrest, and more than a hundred people were injured. The Boeing 777-300ER jet had 211 passengers and 18 crew members on board.

As of June 4, 20 passengers were still receiving medical care in Bangkok hospitals, according to the airline.

"For those who sustained more serious injuries from the incident, we have invited them to discuss a compensation offer to meet each of their specific circumstances when they feel well and ready to do so," SIA said.

The airline also said it will refund airfares for all passengers on board the flight and pay compensation for delays in accordance with European Union or U.K. regulations.

Singapore Airlines earlier gave each passenger leaving Bangkok for their final destination 1,000 Singapore dollars, equivalent to about US$740, for immediate expenses. The airline has been covering the medical costs of the injured passengers and arranging travel for their family members and loved ones to Bangkok upon request.


Write to Kimberley Kao at kimberley.kao@wsj.com


(END) Dow Jones Newswires

06-11-24 0121ET