Former Flight Steward’s $1 Million Lawsuit Against Singapore Airlines Dismissed by High Court
In a recent legal battle, former flight steward Mr. Durairaj Santiran, 35, saw his claim against Singapore Airlines (SIA) for over $1 million dismissed by the High Court. Mr. Durairaj alleged that he slipped on a grease patch aboard an SIA aircraft, resulting in injuries to his spine that rendered him unfit to continue working as a flight steward. He also accused his former employer of negligence for failing to maintain a safe workplace.
Court Ruling and Findings
Justice Vinodh Coomaraswamy, in a judgment dated Oct 18, ruled in favor of SIA, stating that there was no evidence of a slippery area on the aircraft floor. The judge rejected Mr. Durairaj’s claim that SIA had breached its duty of care towards him. The court found that no foreign substance was present on the surface of the galley floor that could have caused slipping.
Inconsistencies in Testimony
During the trial, it was revealed that Mr. Durairaj’s testimony had inconsistencies and discrepancies. He initially claimed to have informed the leading stewardess, Ms. Christina Chia, about the grease patch and attempted to clean it only after her instructions. However, his account at the trial differed, stating that he had tried to clean the patch on his own initiative while the plane was taxiing for take-off.
Impact on Mr. Durairaj
As a result of the dismissal of his claim, Mr. Durairaj, who worked for SIA from April 2016 to April 2021, now holds a different position as a customer care analyst in Malaysia, earning RM4,200 (S$1,300) per month. His claim for damages, including loss of future earnings amounting to almost $700,000, was not upheld by the court.
Analyzing the Outcome
The court’s decision highlights the importance of providing accurate and consistent testimony in legal proceedings. In this case, the discrepancies in Mr. Durairaj’s account raised doubts about the credibility of his claims, ultimately leading to the dismissal of his lawsuit against SIA. This serves as a cautionary tale for individuals involved in legal disputes to ensure the accuracy and reliability of their statements to avoid unfavorable outcomes.
By examining the details of this case, individuals can gain insights into the legal process, the significance of evidence and testimony, and the potential consequences of inconsistencies in court proceedings. Understanding these aspects can help individuals navigate legal challenges effectively and protect their rights in legal disputes.