The severe turbulent Singapore Airlines flight abruptly dropped 178 feet in less than five seconds, according to the flight data recorder.
This sudden drop was likely responsible for the injuries, the preliminary report said.
“The rapid changes in gravitational force over a 4.6 second duration likely caused the injuries to the crew and passengers,” the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau of Singapore said.
A British man died and dozens suffered injuries, including spinal cord and brain injuries.
The Singapore-bound flight from London was carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members.
Aviation safety officials said the pilots took action to stabilise the aircraft.
The plane was flying over Myanmar at the time, which was likely an area ‘of developing convective activity’ the report said.
“We are committed to supporting our passengers and crew members who were on board SQ321 on that day, as well as their families and loved ones,” the airline said.
It further added it is ‘covering their medical and hospital expenses, as well as any additional assistance they may need.’
