BANGKOK, Thailand – A former Thai teen pop star is suing Singapore Airlines after a chicken satay skewer splinter damaged her vocal cords on a July 28 flight.
Briohny Smyth, 44, was in business class on a flight to Los Angeles when a piece of the skewer – about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) long and sharp-edged – broke off and stuck in her throat.
She managed to cough up the jagged splinter in severe pain. The lawsuit describes choking sensations and panicked coughing immediately after swallowing.
Vocal cords scarred by wood
After the incident, Smyth suffered from constant vocal fatigue, pain when speaking, and a feeling of tightness in her throat. The problems got worse when she talked or sang for long periods.
An ear, nose and throat specialist later diagnosed scars and tissue damage. The trauma matches exactly what you would expect from a sharp foreign object, according to the court filing.
From teen star to wellness coach
Smyth was a household name in Thailand in the late 1990s and early 2000s. She released a platinum album at just 13 and enjoyed success as a singer.
She later moved to the United States and now works as a yoga teacher and wellness educator. The lawsuit also describes her as a public speaker and performer.
Smyth blames airline for injury
Smyth argues she ate the food exactly as intended. She says the airline is responsible for the foreign object in the meal.
She is seeking damages for bodily injury, lost earnings, and emotional distress. She also says the incident has left her afraid to eat and fly.
Singapore Airlines stays silent
The airline has not publicly commented on the lawsuit. The case is now before a federal court in Los Angeles.
The lawsuit was filed on July 24 at a federal court in Los Angeles. A verdict has not yet been reached.
Career at risk from damaged voice
For Smyth, the stakes are high. Her voice is essential for her work as a coach and speaker. The injury could permanently limit her ability to earn a living.
If the court sides with her, Singapore Airlines could face a large payout. No judgment has been made yet.