SQ321 turbulence: Full refund for all passengers, minimum US$10,000 compensation for injured

SINGAPORE - Singapore Airlines (SIA) will provide a full refund of the airfare to all passengers travelling on flight SQ321, which encountered severe turbulence last month, including those who did not suffer any injuries.

The airline in a Facebook posting Tuesday said all passengers will also receive delay compensation in accordance with the relevant European Union or United Kingdom regulations.

SIA said those who suffered minor injuries have been offered US$10,000 (US$1=RM4.72) in compensation, while those who sustained more serious injuries have been invited to discuss a compensation offer to meet each of their specific circumstances.

"Passengers medically assessed as having sustained serious injuries, requiring long-term medical care, and requesting financial assistance are offered an advance payment of US$25,000 to address their immediate needs.

"This will be part of the final compensation that these passengers will receive," said SIA.

All passengers were also provided with S$1,000 (S$1=RM3.48) each to meet their immediate expenses upon departure from Bangkok, where the flight was diverted following the incident.

The airline said it has also been covering the medical expenses of the injured passengers, and arranging for their family members and loved ones to fly up to Bangkok where requested.

SIA said it has sent out the offers of compensation to the passengers on June 10 via email, along with information on how they may proceed with their claims.

"For any inquiries or further assistance, passengers may contact us using the provided details, and we will address these promptly," it said, adding that the airline remains committed to supporting the affected passengers.

SQ321 was en route to Singapore from London on May 20 when it encountered severe turbulence, causing the plane to make an emergency diversion to Bangkok, Thailand. One passenger died and dozens were injured following the incident. - BERNAMA