Five things you need to know about Singapore Airlines’ latest aircraft
I realise this blog is becoming somewhat of a lovefest for Singapore Airlines. Having only flown them once and on a very short flight, as you can read here, they were excellent - yet my one experience of SIA is not necessarily representative of the entire company (even if they are highly rated by most). Once again, the airline is really setting the bar in their world class products - even on their shortest flights. Let’s take a look.
Enter stage left, Boeing 737-MAX 8
Or otherwise dubbed just the 737-8, the aircraft which was grounded after two tragic crashes, is the newest member of the Singapore Airlines’ fleet. If you’re a European like me, you’re more likely to experience this aircraft on Ryanair…but don’t let that taint your expectations. For SIA, this aircraft will serve as the premium short haul aircraft offering a superior experience that is not matched globally or regionally.
Lay flat…even on flights as short as 90 minutes
Business class on these aircraft will introduce a new seat, designed by NI-based Thompson Aero Seating, that offers the ability to recline directly into lay flat, bed mode with a length of 76 inches. The premium experience is upgraded further through their attention to detail with ‘bespoke embroidery’ that is the same as found on medium-haul aircraft - creating a similar cabin experience. The seating setup is in a 2-2, 1-1 ‘throne seat’, 2-2 configuration - making for a good combination whether you are travelling alone or in a couple.
This is a big upgrade from the 737 aircraft currently in place. These transferred across from Silk Air which was Singapore Airline’s former subsidiary for short-haul flights - and are terribly dated. Thankfully these new aircraft will really elevate your experience when travelling in and around South East Asia from their hub at Singapore Changi.
Economy hasn’t been left out either
Like me, you’re probably more likely to be at the back of the plane on most of your Singapore Airlines connecting journeys. Whilst not as exciting as the Business Class developments, the airline have improved the experience infinitely by installing in-flight entertainment, more comfortable seating with adjustable headrests and charging ports to keep your devices topped up.
In-flight entertainment is amongst the best in the world
SIA’s 737-8 aircraft features industry-leading Panasonic X series in-flight entertainment - the most awarded system in the industry. For passengers, it will have comprehensive KrisWorld entertainment selection, which is particularly brilliant, as well as interactive 3D flight maps - that’s likely to excite most avgeeks out there - but also to better inform people travelling on this plane. Upgraded in-flight Wi-Fi, also by Panasonic, should enable better, faster, more reliable connectivity while above the clouds.
The food is getting better, and greener
Business Class passengers taking flights on 737-8 aircraft will be able to make use of the airline’s coveted ‘Book The Cook’ service out of their Singapore hub. This will allow passengers travelling in the premium cabin to select their meal prior to the flight. Interestingly, Singapore Airlines specifically stated their Business Class food offering on-board is a ‘level of service in keeping with First Class’ which is an odd statement but can be argued thanks to premium food and Illy Coffee options on-board. Economy passengers aren’t out of luck either. All passengers will receive a main course in Economy including congee, my favourite Lakes as well as Mee Siam - which are served in a spill and leak-proof bamboo and paper container that is better for the planet when compared to previous plastic containers.
This hasn’t come cheap.
Singapore Airlines' have invested a huge SGD 230m, around GBP 125m, in making these cabin improvements. You can be sure if you end on one of these aircrafts, you will be experiencing one of the best short-haul flights in the world. Cathay Pacific…watch out. British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France-KLM…up your game.
