7-9-2024 (SINGAPORE) A routine flight from Singapore to Guangzhou, China, turned into a harrowing experience for passengers and crew aboard Scoot flight TR100 on Friday morning when the aircraft encountered severe turbulence, resulting in injuries to seven individuals.
The low-cost carrier, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, confirmed that the incident occurred during the journey, which departed from Changi Airport at approximately 5:45 am local time. Despite the mid-air turmoil, the aircraft managed to land “uneventfully” at its destination in Guangzhou at 9:10 am.
Upon touchdown, emergency services were immediately activated to attend to the injured. “We can confirm that four customers and three crew members received medical assistance immediately upon arrival in Guangzhou,” a Scoot spokesperson stated. The airline emphasised that their “primary concern was the safety of passengers and crew,” assuring that all necessary support and assistance would be provided to those affected.
As of 8:30 pm local time, one passenger remained hospitalised for further observation, underscoring the potential severity of injuries sustained during air turbulence events.
Eyewitness accounts and images obtained by Singapore Chinese news outlet 8world painted a vivid picture of the scene at Guangzhou airport. Emergency personnel were observed using stretchers to evacuate passengers from the aircraft cabin. Two crew members, identified as a man and a woman, were seen being assisted in wheelchairs, highlighting the impact of the turbulence on both passengers and staff.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of adhering to safety protocols, such as keeping seatbelts fastened when seated. Aviation experts often emphasise that while modern aircraft are designed to withstand significant turbulence, sudden and severe air pockets can still pose risks to unrestrained passengers and crew.
