Singapore: According to a report from The Straits Times, some frequent travelers have criticized Singapore Airlines (SIA) for swiftly implementing new in-flight service protocols after a recent bout of severe turbulence. This shift, deemed hasty by some, has reportedly led to complications in service offerings and heightened stress levels among cabin crew members.
The updated guidelines, which include suspending meal service and mandating that cabin crew members buckle up when the seat-belt sign is illuminated, have impacted both passengers and staff, the report stated. These measures were put in place following an incident on Flight SQ321 from London to Singapore on May 21, which resulted in one passenger fatality and numerous injuries.
Previously, only hot drinks and soup were restricted during turbulence, with service discretion left to the crew. However, the new directive requires a complete halt to meal service.
Flights inbound from Europe, particularly those crossing the Andaman Sea, are susceptible to turbulence, as highlighted by crew members and passengers cited by The Straits Times. This area, situated west of Thailand in the Indian Ocean, poses a challenge for flights heading towards Singapore.
Cabin crew members expressed challenges in managing service amidst turbulence, with one attendant recounting over an hour of turbulence during a recent flight from Singapore to India. Passengers’ understanding of the necessity for service changes varied, impacting feedback received after affected flights.
Despite the increased stress and adjustments required, crew members remain committed to upholding safety standards. In-flight managers have been actively monitoring crew well-being, with a support team established to provide counseling.
While some passengers have suggested bringing their own food and drinks onboard for short- and medium-haul flights, aviation experts emphasize the importance of adapting safety protocols promptly. However, finding the balance between safety and service quality remains a challenge for SIA, with potential considerations for cabin crew training and layout restructuring.
Overall, industry analysts believe that SIA’s decision prioritizes passenger and crew safety without significantly compromising service quality.
