TRAGIC memories of an airline accident concerning Singaporean Airlines flight SQ321 that happened more than two weeks ago remain fresh as therapists encounter more patients trying to overcome their fear of flying.
The aftermath of the incident last month came to light after service providers revealed that more people are seeking treatment for aerophobia.
Cases range from slight uneasiness to very severe panic attacks that are triggered by mere thoughts of flying or by an impending travel on air.
On the 21st of May, extreme turbulence hit Singaporean Airlines flight SQ321 while flying 37,000 feet up mid-air from London to Singapore.
The aircraft which was transporting 211 passengers and 18 crew members onboard was diverted to Bangkok.
The extreme turbulence caused the plane to drop more than 6,000 feet (1800m) in three minutes, slamming passengers against the ceiling.
The incident killed a 73-year-old British passenger and injured more than 80 others.
Despite the controversy that rocked Singapore’s national airline, the Southeast Asian nation retained the top spot as the country with the strongest passport for four consecutive months.
Singaporean passport holders can enter 168 countries visa-free.
Meanwhile, 159 countries allow Singaporean nationals to enter their border without visa requirements.
Singapore, a country of more than 5.6 million people, aims to lure 15 million to 16.5 million tourists and generate up to $29 billion in tourism revenue by the end of 2024.
Japan held the top spot for the most powerful passport in the last five years until Singapore dethroned the East Asian nation in 2023.
