The Boeing 777-300ER aircraft of Singapore Airlines, flight SQ321 from Heathrow is seen on tarmac after requesting an emergency landing at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International airport, Thailand, Tuesday, 21 May 2024. Photo: AP / Pongsakorn Rodphai
Three New Zealanders injured on the Singapore Airlines flight that encountered severe turbulence are in hospital in Bangkok, one of them in intensive care.
The flight from London to Singapore hit turbulence over Myanmar, resulting in the death of one man and seriously injuring others.
Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital said more than 100 patients were treated after the flight.
Fifty-eight of them are still in various hospitals and 20 are in intensive care.
Nine patients have undergone surgery and are in a stable condition, while another five are scheduled to have surgery in the coming days.
Singapore Airlines said a relief flight with 143 of the SQ321 passengers and crew members, who were able to travel, had arrived in Singapore, with an additional five passengers due to return to Singapore on Thursday.
The airline said 74 passengers and six crew members were still in Bangkok, including those receiving medical care, as well as their family members and loved ones who were on the flight.
Singapore Airlines chairperson Peter Seah said the company extended its condolences.
"I assure all passengers and crew members who were on board the aircraft that we are committed to supporting them during this difficult time. I also wish to express my gratitude to everyone in Singapore, Thailand, and around the world who are assisting those affected by this incident."
Air New Zealand said it had been in contact with 10 passengers booked onboard the Singapore Airlines flight through the airline's code-share agreement and they had all been rebooked onto alternative flights.
