On May 21, 2024, Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321 encountered “clear air turbulence” over Myanmar, injuring more than 70 passengers and killing one. Among those injured were three New Zealanders, including Philip Whitehead, who broke his neck and back after being thrown into an overhead locker.

One year on, many passengers continue to suffer severe physical and psychological impacts. Carter Capner Law, representing 11 passengers, says medical evaluations are ongoing, with claims for both physical and psychological trauma being prepared. Director Peter Carter confirmed the firm is pressing for more than US$1m (NZ$1.69m) in compensation, including damages for PTSD even where no physical injuries exist.

“Many of our clients exhibit PTSD symptoms as a result of this terrifying mid-air experience. They thought they were going to die,” Carter said. He also argued pilots “likely encountered” a thunderstorm in the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone, noting other aircraft had taken evasive action.

Passengers with serious injuries were advanced US$25,000 by Singapore Airlines, while others received US$10,000. Carter said final demands will be presented to insurers by September, with a final report into the disaster expected mid-year.

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Stuff.co.nz – Kiwis injured in turbulence on Singapore Airlines flight could receive payouts