In a groundbreaking move to redefine the premium air travel experience, Singapore Airlines (SIA) is investing S$1.1 billion in an extensive retrofit programme for its Airbus A350-900 fleet. Spanning 41 aircraft, this ambitious programme includes both long-haul and ultra-long-range (ULR) variants, equipping each cabin with SIA’s latest innovations in seating, in-flight entertainment, and enhanced comfort features. By aligning this cabin upgrade with the growing expectations of modern travellers, Singapore Airlines aims to set new standards of luxury and convenience on some of the world’s longest routes.
New First Class Cabins on the Airbus A350-900ULR
One of the most notable aspects of SIA’s retrofit initiative is the introduction of luxurious First Class cabins on its seven A350-900ULR aircraft. These cabins are designed with comfort, privacy, and style at the forefront, providing an oasis of sophistication for travellers on extended flights. With these upgrades, SIA sets itself apart by offering travellers a sanctuary in the sky, addressing the needs of discerning passengers seeking exclusivity and the ultimate comfort.
Each First Class seat has been meticulously designed with ergonomic and aesthetic elements that harmonize to deliver an extraordinary experience. Enhanced with a spacious layout and premium materials, these seats offer a new level of comfort, ensuring travellers can rest or work in a private, serene setting. The A350-900ULR fleet’s first-class experience will soon rival some of the most exclusive offerings in the aviation industry, catering to travellers with a penchant for luxury.
Enhanced Business Class: Privacy, Comfort, and Innovation
For Business Class passengers, SIA’s retrofit programme will unveil an upgraded seat design tailored for enhanced privacy, comfort, and convenience. This new Business Class layout, set to be introduced across all 41 A350-900 aircraft, integrates the latest in seat innovation and ergonomic design. Passengers can expect a spacious and modern aesthetic, with seats that maximize personal space and comfort, making the flying experience a seamless extension of a high-end lifestyle.
The Business Class cabin features exclusive seats that allow passengers to relax, work, or enjoy the in-flight entertainment in a comfortable, individualized space. These seats offer lie-flat beds, private partitions, and ample storage, creating a private oasis for each traveller. With a commitment to providing a top-tier business-class experience, Singapore Airlines ensures that every detail is carefully considered to exceed passenger expectations.
Revamped Premium Economy and Economy Cabins
The cabin retrofit programme also brings exciting updates for Premium Economy and Economy Class passengers. These updates are designed to elevate the in-flight experience with refreshed interiors, ergonomic enhancements, and state-of-the-art seating solutions. With a focus on comfort and accessibility, these cabins offer passengers more space, refined aesthetics, and upgraded amenities, contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable journey.
Premium Economy seats are enhanced with extra legroom, recline features, and an updated entertainment console, giving travellers more control over their in-flight experience. Meanwhile, Economy Class cabins have been redesigned to optimize passenger space, providing an upgraded seating layout and enhanced comfort for long-haul travel. These upgrades demonstrate SIA’s dedication to creating a comfortable environment for all passengers, regardless of class.
Cutting-Edge KrisWorld In-Flight Entertainment
Complementing the physical upgrades, SIA is also introducing the next generation of its KrisWorld in-flight entertainment (IFE) system. Designed for all cabin classes, this upgraded KrisWorld system boasts greater personalization features and an extensive selection of lifestyle options, allowing passengers to enjoy a fully immersive in-flight entertainment experience.
In the First Class and Business Class cabins, the KrisWorld system will be accessible on new high-resolution screens, providing crystal-clear visuals that enhance the experience. The system will include intuitive controls, allowing travellers to easily navigate through an extensive library of movies, TV shows, music, and games. By offering a more personalized and engaging IFE system, Singapore Airlines reaffirms its commitment to providing a world-class in-flight experience that resonates with all passengers.
Innovative Seat Configurations and Layouts
The seat configurations post-retrofit are tailored to optimize both comfort and space across the various cabin classes. Upon completion, the 34 A350-900 long-haul aircraft will feature:
- 42 Business Class seats
- 24 Premium Economy Class seats
- 192 Economy Class seats
For the seven A350-900ULR variants, designed for ultra-long-haul routes, the seat layout will include:
- 4 luxurious First Class seats
- 70 Business Class seats
- 58 Premium Economy Class seats
This well-thought-out configuration demonstrates SIA’s focus on enhancing passenger comfort while maximizing seating efficiency.
Commitment to Quality and Innovation
The S$1.1 billion investment underscores Singapore Airlines’ commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience for its passengers. By incorporating these next-generation seat designs and advanced in-flight entertainment systems, SIA is poised to redefine the long-haul travel experience, setting itself apart with its dedication to service excellence and customer-centric innovation.
Mr Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, of Singapore Airlines, said: “Over the past six years, we have extensively engaged customers and stakeholders in the design of our next-generation long-haul cabin products, anticipating their evolving preferences and expectations down to the finest detail.
Expected Timeline for Retrofits and Service Entry
The retrofit project will be carried out by SIA Engineering Company in Singapore. The first retrofitted A350-900 long-haul aircraft is scheduled to enter service in the second quarter of 2026, with the A350-900ULR variant expected to follow in the first quarter of 2027. The entire retrofit programme is targeted for completion by 2030, ensuring a gradual rollout that will bring these advanced cabins to passengers over the coming years.
Conclusion
With this significant investment in cabin retrofits for the A350-900 fleet, Singapore Airlines is poised to redefine premium air travel. From luxurious First Class suites and innovative Business Class seats to refreshed Premium Economy and Economy cabins, each upgrade reflects SIA’s commitment to setting new standards in comfort, service, and entertainment. By investing in both physical and digital passenger experience enhancements, Singapore Airlines continues its legacy of excellence, offering travellers a uniquely enjoyable journey across the globe.
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