After the severe turbulence on a Singapore Airlines flight today, May 21, which resulted in 30 injuries and one fatality, a 28-year-old student named Dzafran Azmir recounted the terrifying experience faced by him and the other passengers.
Azmir, who was on board the flight, explained to Reuters the sequence of events that unfolded among the 211 passengers.
According to Azmir, “The aircraft suddenly started tilting upwards, causing intense shaking. I immediately braced myself for what was happening, and then there was a sudden and dramatic drop. As a result, anyone who was not wearing a seatbelt was forcefully propelled into the ceiling.”
He further added, “Some individuals hit their heads on the overhead baggage compartments, causing them to dent. They also collided with the areas where the lights and oxygen masks are located, breaking through them.”
Another passenger named Andrew Davies shared his experience on X, stating, “I was on that flight and did my best to assist. Those of us who were not injured, including myself, are currently in a holding area at Bangkok airport.
My heart goes out to the man who lost his life and his grieving wife. It was an absolutely dreadful experience.” Davies also mentioned that many people, including the air stewards who remained composed, sustained injuries. He praised the prompt response of the emergency services in Bangkok. The seatbelt sign was turned on, and I immediately fastened mine, but then the plane suddenly dropped.”
Davies also mentioned that individuals with medical training on board stepped forward to provide assistance to others.
Reportedly, the Singapore Airlines aircraft was flying at an altitude of 37,000 feet (11,300 meters). Within less than three minutes, just after 0800 GMT, the Boeing 777 rapidly and steeply descended to 31,000 feet (9,400 meters). After spending approximately ten minutes at 31,000 feet, the plane descended swiftly.
