Under normal circumstances, turbulence is not particularly threatening to people on board an airplane. However, during one especially harrowing Singapore Airlines flight that took place on May 20, passengers found themselves being literally flung from their seats by sudden, unexpected turbulence. Dozens of passengers on board suffered injuries, and sadly, one person was killed as a result, a reminder of what happens when pilots are unable to protect passengers from potential danger.

Dozens Injured, One Dead Due to Turbulence

Singapore Airlines flight SQ321 took off from London Heathrow Airport on Monday, May 20, heading towards Singapore. Suddenly, without any apparent warning, the plane started to experience extreme turbulence, resulting in people getting thrown from their seats and being thrown around the inside of the plane. Dozens of people, including both passengers and crew, were injured, with one person dying as a result of their injuries.

Normal Dangers of Turbulence During Monsoon Season

In theory, the plane was already prepared for the possibility of turbulence, as it is monsoon season, where bad weather can easily result in extreme scenarios like that which happened on this flight. However, it seems as though the plane encountered the relatively rare phenomenon known as “clear air turbulence,” where high winds can buffet a plane without any other detectable sign of bad weather. This meant the plane was caught entirely off guard and did not have time to warn people to get in their seats or secure seat belts before the turbulence hit.

Preventing Similar Incidents From Occurring

Under normal circumstances, paying attention to weather reports and on-board instruments could warn the plane of bad weather, which can help prevent or prepare for this kind of extreme turbulence. The unusual nature of the circumstances, however, make it unclear what the pilot or crew might have done to prevent this incident. The matter is currently under investigation, including the exact cause of death of the passenger who died on the flight.

Holding Responsible Parties Accountable

While injuries due to turbulence are rare, they do happen from time to time, and often they are avoidable. When pilots have the opportunity to avoid turbulent weather and fail to do so, they can be held legally accountable for any injuries their passengers suffer. That is why, if this happens to you, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling airplane accidents and other similar injuries. They can help you review your legal options and get you the justice you deserve.