Singapore Airlines will spend S$1.1 billion (AU$1.26 billion) to retrofit seven Airbus A350-900 ultra long haul aircraft and 34 long haul aircraft of the same model.
First class will be added to the ultra long haul aircraft, offering four seats at this cabin level. Business class cabins on both ultra long haul and long haul routes will also get a major upgrade to increase privacy, comfort and convenience.
Both the new first and business class cabins have been designed ‘from the ground up’ while premium economy and economy cabins are being ‘refreshed’.
“The new first class and business class seat designs will incorporate thoughtful elements that push the boundaries of comfort, luxury and modernity, allowing our customers to relax or work effortlessly on board,” said Singapore Airlines CEO, Goh Choon Phong.
“Premium economy class and economy class customers can also look forward to refreshed cabin interiors that enhance their travel experience.
“The S$1.1 billion investment in retrofitting our 41 A350 aircraft reaffirms Singapore Airlines’ unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience.
“The introduction of these next-generation seats and KrisWorld system, together with the world-renowned warm and attentive service of our cabin crew, will set new standards in innovation, customer experience and service excellence.”
The first refitted aircraft will re-enter service in quarter two of 2026, while the first ultra long haul retrofitted aircraft is expected to be flying in the first quarter of 2027. The full refitting program is expected to take until 2030.
The refits will increase the number of economy seats on long haul flights and the number of business class seats on ultra long haul flights, while dropping a significant number of premium economy seats on ultra long haul routes, where there is no economy class.
While Singapore Airlines ultra long haul flights are less likely to be used by Australians or those travelling to Australia, given they service Singapore-US routes, the refitted long haul aircraft will be deployed on Singapore-Europe routes, meaning business events travellers between Australia and Europe stand to benefit.
