“SIA CEO Thanks Staff for Tireless Efforts After SQ321 Incident, Urges Them to Rest “

Singapore Airlines (SIA) CEO Goh Choon Phong has expressed gratitude to the airline’s staff for their dedicated response following the severe turbulence that impacted flight SQ321. The flight, which encountered extreme turbulence over the Irrawaddy Basin on May 21, resulted in one fatality and several injuries.

In a memo to staff on May 26, Goh described the past week as “immensely challenging,” acknowledging the relentless efforts of employees in managing the incident. He encouraged them to take some time to rest and be with their families, emphasizing the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being. “As we continue to care for affected passengers and crew, please take care of yourselves too,” he noted, offering additional support through managers and internal resources if needed.

Goh also outlined the comprehensive response from SIA, stating that the crisis management team in Singapore was mobilized immediately, alongside Bangkok’s local partners and medical teams, to receive the affected aircraft. A “Go-Team,” comprising first responders and volunteers from Singapore, was dispatched to Bangkok to provide additional assistance. A relief flight on May 22 brought 131 passengers and 12 crew members back to Singapore, where SIA staff assisted them with their onward journeys.

SIA’s global volunteer customer care representatives have been supporting hospitalized passengers and their families, while staff across its network handled communications, logistics, and ensured day-to-day operations. Reflecting on his visit with injured passengers in Bangkok on May 23, Goh shared how they commended SIA’s crew and pilots for their professionalism in a challenging situation.

Goh concluded by thanking staff on behalf of SIA’s board and management, saying, “It has been undeniably intense. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”