A 73-year-old man has died on board a flight from London Heathrow to Singapore after it was hit by "severe turbulence".

Authorities shared that the man is likely to have died from a heart attack.

They added that seven people are currently in critical condition while 23 passengers and nine crew members are injured.

The flight, heading to Singapore has been named as the Boeing 777-300ER and has seen more than 30 others injured.

The flight was diverted to Bangkok and landed in the area at the local time of 15:45, 8am GMT.

The plane was carrying 221 passengers and a further 18 members of crew, Singapore Airlines confirmed.

In a statement from the airline, they shared: "Singapore Airlines offers its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased."

A spokesperson from the airline added: "Singapore Airlines flight #SQ321, operating from London (Heathrow) to Singapore on 21 May 2024, encountered severe turbulence en-route. The aircraft diverted to Bangkok and landed at 1545hrs local time.

"We can confirm that there are injuries and one fatality on board the Boeing 777-300ER. There were a total of 211 passengers and 18 crew on board.

"Singapore Airlines offers its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. Our priority is to provide all possible assistance to all passengers and crew on board the aircraft.

"We are working with the local authorities in Thailand to provide the necessary medical assistance, and sending a team to Bangkok to provide any additional assistance needed. We will provide regular updates on our Facebook and X accounts."

It's believed the turbulence was due to severe thunderstorms in and around Thailand with one and a half hours left of the flight.

Singapore's Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat has also shared a statement on Facebook, sharing that the government would provide assistance to the passengers and families.

Writing: "I am deeply saddened to learn about the incident onboard Singapore Airlines flight SQ321 from London Heathrow to Singapore. The plane had encountered severe turbulence en route and had to be diverted to Bangkok. Singapore Airlines has confirmed that there are injuries and one fatality on board.

Ministry of Transport, Singapore, Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and Changi Airport officials as well as SIA staff are providing support to the affected passengers and their families.

My deepest condolences to the family of the deceased."