A woman has filed a lawsuit against Singapore Airlines (SIA), claiming she suffered throat and vocal cord injuries after allegedly swallowing a 3.8cm wooden splinter from a satay skewer served during an in-flight meal.
The incident allegedly occurred on 28 July 2024 while the woman was travelling in Business Class from Singapore to Los Angeles.
She is now seeking damages for medical expenses, loss of earnings and emotional distress.
Wooden Splinter Allegedly Became Lodged In Her Throat
According to court documents filed by her lawyer, 44-year-old Briohny Smyth was served chicken satay on a wooden skewer during the flight.
The complaint alleges that part of the skewer broke off and became lodged in her throat while she was eating.
She reportedly experienced immediate pain, choking, coughing and breathing difficulties before eventually coughing out a 1.5-inch (3.8cm) wooden fragment.
The legal filing describes the ordeal as a “very difficult moment” during the flight.
Claims Voice Was Permanently Affected
The lawsuit further alleges that Smyth continued to suffer throat discomfort, hoarseness, vocal fatigue, tightness and pain when speaking or singing after the incident.
She later sought treatment from an ear, nose and throat specialist, who allegedly found scarring and trauma to her vocal cords.
According to the complaint, Smyth’s career depends heavily on her voice, as she works as a professional singer, wellness educator, yoga instructor and public speaker.
She is seeking compensation for past and future medical costs, lost income, reduced earning capacity and emotional distress.
Former Thai Child Star
Thai media previously identified Smyth as a former child pop star who achieved platinum album success at the age of 13 before later moving into wellness and yoga instruction.
At the time of writing, the allegations are contained in a civil lawsuit, and Singapore Airlines has not been found liable. The legal proceedings are ongoing.