Singapore Airlines has announced compensation for passengers injured during a turbulent flight from London to Singapore.
In a recent Facebook post, the airline confirmed it would provide $10,000 (£7,800) to those with minor injuries.
For passengers with more serious injuries, an advance payment of $25,000 will be offered to cover immediate needs, with further discussions planned to address their specific circumstances.
READ MORE: British Man, 73, Identified as victim of fatal turbulence on Singapore airlines flight
The turbulence, which occurred over Myanmar and forced the flight to divert to Thailand in May, resulted in the death of a 73-year-old British passenger and injuries to dozens more. Singapore Airlines has yet to respond to a BBC News inquiry about the exact number of passengers eligible for compensation.
More than 100 passengers from flight SQ 321 were treated at a Bangkok hospital following the incident. Initial investigations revealed that the aircraft experienced rapid altitude changes, dropping approximately 178 feet (54 meters) in just 4.6 seconds. Passengers recounted that those not wearing seatbelts, including some crew members, were thrown against the cabin ceiling.
Medical reports from the Bangkok hospital indicate injuries ranged from spinal cord damage to head and muscle injuries. At the time of the turbulence, the Boeing 777-300ER was carrying 211 passengers, including many from the UK, Australia, and Singapore, along with 18 crew members.
In addition to the compensation for injuries, Singapore Airlines will offer full fare refunds to all passengers on the flight, including those who were not injured. Passengers will also receive delay compensation in accordance with European Union and United Kingdom regulations. Furthermore, the airline has provided S$1,000 ($739; £580) to each passenger to cover immediate expenses and has arranged for loved ones to fly to Bangkok if requested.
This incident has spotlighted the importance of seatbelt usage, especially since airlines often allow passengers to unfasten their belts during cruising conditions. Under international regulations, airlines are obligated to offer compensation in cases of injury or death while on board.
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