Tragedy Strikes on London to Singapore Flight as British Passenger Dies in Turbulence
Fatal Turbulence Rocks Singapore Airlines Flight
A horrific turbulence incident on a Singapore Airlines flight from London Heathrow to Singapore turned deadly on Tuesday. Geoffrey Ralph Kitchen, 73, a well-known theatre director from south Gloucestershire, lost his life mid-air. Seven other passengers suffered serious injuries during the chaos.
Flight Diverts to Bangkok After Violent Shakes
The Boeing 777-300ER, flight SQ321, was cruising comfortably when it hit severe turbulence roughly six to seven hours in. The pilot was forced to divert the plane to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, landing at 3:45 PM local time (9:45 AM UK time) as emergency teams stood ready.
Passengers Describe Life-Threatening Ordeal
Businessman Andrew Davies recalled the terrifying moments: “The seatbelt sign came on. Seconds after I buckled up, the plane suddenly jolted with a thud. Cushions, pillows, blankets, and laptops went flying all over the cabin.” Despite injuries, he commended the cabin crew for their courage, saying many continued to help passengers amid panic.
Airline Issues Statement, Support Ongoing
Singapore Airlines extended heartfelt condolences to Kitchen’s family. They confirmed that 18 people were hospitalised, with local Thai authorities providing medical aid. Emergency crews from Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, just 12 miles from the airport, rushed to treat those hurt.
Officials suspect the cause of Kitchen’s death was a heart attack triggered by the severe turbulence.
