Singapore Airlines, recently crowned the world's best carrier, is not resting on its laurels. With rivals like Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific closing in, the flag carrier has unveiled a S$2 billion (€1.4 billion) plan to overhaul its long-haul cabins, from first class to economy.
The investment will be rolled out from the second half of 2027, initially on retrofitted Airbus A350-900 long-haul and ultra-long-range aircraft, as well as on the airline's new Boeing 777-9s. The announcement comes as global travel is projected to hit record numbers, with Europe leading growth, according to recent industry forecasts.
Design driven by passenger feedback
More than 5,000 frequent flyers, customers, staff, and industry experts contributed through focus groups, surveys, and concept testing to shape the new designs. Lee Lik Hsin, Singapore Airlines' Chief Commercial Officer, said: “While each cabin has been designed individually, they are united by the same ambition to make the experience more comfortable, flexible, and rewarding for our customers.”
He added: “Singapore Airlines’ next-generation long-haul cabin products will ensure that our customers travel more comfortably than before, and have greater control over their in-flight experience, whether they are working, dining, relaxing, or resting.”
First class: a double bed in the sky
In first class, passengers travelling together in the centre seats can convert their seats into a two-seater sofa during the day, or into the largest double bed in commercial aviation at night, measuring 203 centimetres in length and 152 centimetres in width. Dedicated storage includes a personal wardrobe, a vanity drawer, and a cabin baggage compartment under the ottoman. The table is large enough for dining as a pair or for use as a workspace.
Business class: privacy and comfort
Business class seats now feature sliding privacy doors and a seat pitch of 127 centimetres. They convert into a full-flat bed measuring 200 centimetres in length and up to 61 centimetres in width. For the first time, business class passengers will receive pyjamas—a perk previously reserved for first class. Amenity kits will include BYREDO products in business class, while first class gets SISLEY and premium economy gets INK & WATER.
Premium economy and economy upgrades
Premium economy offers a 101-centimetre seat pitch, a four-way adjustable headrest, and a leg rest with an adjustable foot rest. Economy class provides a seat pitch of 78 to 81 centimetres and a four-way adjustable headrest. Across all cabins, USB-C charging ports are standard, with some aircraft and classes also offering USB-A, universal AC power, or wireless charging. Passengers can pair their personal headphones with the KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system via Bluetooth.
The investment underscores the competitive pressure in the premium long-haul market, where carriers are vying for high-yield travellers. As European airlines like Lufthansa and Air France-KLM also upgrade their products, the race for the skies is intensifying. For European travellers, this means more choice and better comfort on routes to Asia and beyond.
Singapore Airlines' move also reflects broader trends in aviation, where record travel demand is driving carriers to invest in premium experiences. The airline's focus on passenger feedback is a reminder that even the best can improve.
