Singapore Airlines (SIA) experienced a medical emergency on one of its ultra-long-haul flights from London to Singapore, resulting in a diversion to Istanbul. Flight SQ305, operating with an Airbus A350-900, was approximately three hours into its journey over northeastern Turkey when it turned back due to a passenger falling ill. The aircraft subsequently landed at Istanbul Airport at 5:07 p.m. local time, where emergency medical services attended to the individual, who was then taken to hospital.
To adhere to regulatory flight time limits, the aircraft was rescheduled to depart from Istanbul the following day at 12:10 p.m., eventually arriving in Singapore at 3:33 a.m. on September 17. This incident followed a previous emergency involving Flight SQ24 from Singapore to New York, which turned back to Changi Airport after about four hours into its journey. Since November 2020, the Singapore to New York route has been recognized as the world's longest commercial flight according to Flightradar24 data.
Rumors circulated on social media suggesting crew illness, but Singapore Airlines has not confirmed any specifics regarding the medical situation. The airline issued an apology and arranged hotel accommodations and alternate flights for impacted passengers.
This event underscores the operational challenges faced by ultra-long-haul flights, especially in the context of ongoing global health concerns. Singapore Airlines continues to prioritize passenger safety while managing its extensive international network.
