Former Singapore Airlines Crew Member Files $1.2 Million Lawsuit Over Alleged Onboard Injury

A former Singapore Airlines cabin crew member, Durairaj Santiran, aged 36, has initiated a $1.2 million lawsuit against the airline following an incident where he allegedly slipped on a grease patch during a flight from San Francisco to Singapore. The accident, which occurred on September 5, 2019, aboard an Airbus A350, reportedly led to Santiran suffering a slipped disc.

Santiran, who appeared in a Singapore court on February 13, 2024, with a brace for support, accuses the airline of neglecting to maintain a safe working environment. He alleges that the presence of the grease patch, which was not adequately addressed by the airline, directly contributed to his accident and subsequent injuries.

During the court proceedings, Santiran’s legal representatives argued that the airline failed to exercise reasonable care to either remove the hazard or restrict access to the area, thereby compromising the safety of its crew. They detailed how Santiran encountered the grease patch while serving passengers, leading to a fall that resulted in him hitting his head and necessitating wheelchair assistance upon arrival at Singapore Changi Airport.

Singapore Airlines’ defense refuted the claims, suggesting the absence of a grease patch and disputing its role in Santiran’s injuries. The airline’s lawyer also challenged the sequence of events reported by Santiran, especially regarding the discovery and reporting of the grease patch, and the efforts made to clean it.

The case raises significant questions about workplace safety and employer responsibility in the aviation industry. Santiran seeks compensation for damages, including future loss of earnings, as the trial continues to unfold.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aerotime.aero