What’s in store for the globe-striding jets?
Singapore Airlines has a make-over in mind for its ultra-long range Airbus A350 jets which dominate the carrier’s routes to New York and San Francisco.
All six of the A350-900ULR variant – a model flown exclusively by the Star Alliance member – are configured into just two classes, with 67 lie-flat business class seats and 94 premium economy recliners.
It’s not known if the reconfiguration will alter that mix or potentially see the business class seats upgraded to a new design, such as that intended for the delayed Boeing 777-9.
Approached for comment by Executive Traveller, a Singapore Airlines spokesperson said “Singapore Airlines continuously reviews the cabin product offerings across its fleet and cabin classes.”
Singapore Airlines’ current A350-900ULR business class.
Singapore Airlines began flying the A350-900ULR series in October 2018 with the return of non-stop flights between Singapore and New York.
However, the business class seat has often been criticised for the angled sleeping position and small footwell, as well as that the seat must be flipped over to become a bed, rather than gradually reclining through several positions.
While Singapore Airlines deliberately chose an ‘all-premium’ configuration for the A350s, Qantas has opted for a conventional four-class layout on its forthcoming ‘Project Sunrise’ A350-1000ULR jets which will tackle 18-20 hour marathon flights from Sydney and Melbourne to London and New York from late 2025.
The Qantas A350 will include six private first class suites, 52 business class suites with sliding doors plus a new take on premium economy and economy, along with a dedicated Wellbeing Zone where travellers can stand, stretch and briefly socialise.
