Singapore Airlines has officially unveiled the next phase of its passenger experience overhaul, revealing new first-class and business-class suites at an event in Singapore. The carrier plans to invest more than $2 billion SGD in the upgrade program, which will transform the long-haul experience for travelers.
The refresh, initially targeted for the arrival of the Boeing 777-9, is now expected to begin in the second half of next year. The new interiors will also be fitted to a portion of the airline’s Airbus A350-900 fleet. This strategic move follows the airline’s recent recognition as the 2026 SkyTrax Best Airline, highlighting its focus on detailed cabin innovation.
Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-9 and A350 Seat Counts
The new configuration varies by aircraft type. The Boeing 777-9 will feature 54 business-class seats and six first-class seats. The Airbus A350-900ULR, designed for ultra-long-haul routes, will carry 70 business-class seats and four first-class seats. Standard long-range A350-900 aircraft will be equipped with 42 business-class seats.
Singapore Airlines confirmed that all new Boeing 777-9 deliveries will include the new cabin experience. Additionally, 41 existing Airbus A350-900s will undergo retrofitting. The upgrade will apply to the A350-900 long-haul and A350-900ULR models. First-class cabins will be exclusive to the Boeing 777-9 and the A350ULR. Other aircraft in the fleet, including the A350-900 mid-range, Boeing 777-300s, and Airbus A380s, will not receive these specific retrofits.
Forward-Facing Business Class with Doors
The business-class cabin represents a significant departure from traditional layouts. Designed in collaboration with BMW Design Works and RECARO, the seats face forward, a choice intended to optimize space and passenger comfort. Lee Lik Hsin, the airline’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized that the design considers work, sleep, dining, and relaxation.
A key feature is the introduction of doors for business-class seats, a first for the carrier. The seats include a dedicated space for laptops during meal service, addressing a common passenger complaint. The full-flat beds measure 79 inches in length and up to 24 inches in width. Select seats can be combined to create double beds, complete with memory foam padding for added support.
First-Class Enclosures and Double Beds
The first-class cabin, designed with PriestmanGoode, features six seats with floor-to-ceiling enclosures. The design retains the airline’s established aesthetic, contrasting with the modern business-class look. The centerpiece of the cabin consists of two middle seats that can be synchronized to form a sofa or a double bed.
When combined, these seats offer what the airline describes as the largest double bed in commercial aviation, measuring 80 inches in length and 60 inches in width. A full-height wall can separate the seats if passengers are strangers. The seats, built by Collins Aerospace, also allow for face-to-face dining, accommodating up to four people in the center section.
Goh Choon Phong, Singapore Airlines CEO, confirmed that the new first-class cabin will be available on the world’s longest flight between Singapore and New York. This route will utilize the A350ULR, marking the first time first-class will be offered on ultra-long-range aircraft for the carrier.
Source: Simple Flying
