Turbulence Tragedy: Malaysian Passengers In ICU After Severe In-Flight Incident

25 May 2024 • 9:00 PM MYT
Young Sok Fun
Young Sok Fun

A network tech by profession and a consultant. Passionate about writing

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Image Credit: Malay Mail

Three Malaysian passengers from Singapore Airlines (SIA) flight SQ321 are currently being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), although none are in critical condition.

Malaysian Ambassador to Thailand, Datuk Jojie Samuel, confirmed that while their injuries are not life-threatening, the passengers require close monitoring in the ICU due to head and back injuries. "The three in the ICU are conscious and able to talk, but their condition is being closely monitored by doctors," he said. "The other six Malaysians, who are hospitalized with dizziness and minor injuries, are in stable condition and also under medical supervision."

All Malaysian victims are between the ages of 31 and 65. Six are receiving care at Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, while three are at Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital. The Malaysian embassy is committed to tracking their recovery and providing any necessary assistance.

The incident occurred when flight SQ321, travelling from London to Singapore with 211 passengers and 18 crew members, encountered severe turbulence over the Irrawaddy Basin at 37,000 feet, approximately 10 hours after departure. The pilot declared a medical emergency and diverted the Boeing 777-300ER to Bangkok, landing at 3:45 pm local time on Tuesday.

The turbulence resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries. Suvarnabhumi Airport director Kittipong Kittikachorn reported that the sole fatality was a 73-year-old British man. Deputy Superintendent of Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station, Pol. Lt. Col. Weerasak Muangsuwan, stated that Thai Police have sent the deceased's body to the forensic department at Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute for an autopsy. "No one has come forward to claim the body yet, as the deceased’s wife is also injured and still receiving treatment," he said.

Thailand’s Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsuthin, expressed his condolences for the incident. Trichada Sritada, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health, said Somsak has instructed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, Opas Karkawinpong, to ensure comprehensive health assistance for those affected. "Somsak has emphasized the importance of providing full support to the victims," she said.

She added that a total of 41 patients are being treated at Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital, 14 at Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, and 2 at Bangkok Hospital.

The Malaysian embassy continues to work closely with Thai authorities and medical facilities to support the injured Malaysians and ensure they receive the best possible care. This incident has underscored the importance of international cooperation and swift response in times of crisis.


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