Singapore’s A380 cabin upgrade …

SINGAPORE Airlines has set a new standard in sky-high comfort by unveiling the next generation of “cabin products”.

The airline, known as an innovator when it comes to aircraft interiors, has invested four years in designing the new passenger spaces that will feature across all four cabin categories in the A380 after a fleet refurbishment costing $USD850 million.

The new-look A380 will be configured with 471 seats – six first-class suites (below), 78 seats in business, 44 premium economy positions, and 343 economy spots – and the first five aircraft to receive the refit will start welcoming passengers before Christmas.

“The new cabin products are the culmination of four years of work, involving extensive customer research and close partnerships with our designers and suppliers,’’ explains Singapore Airline’s CEO Goh Choon Phong.

“We’re confident the results will genuinely ‘wow’ our customers and ensure that we continue to provide them an unparalleled travel experience.”

First class

Each of the airline 19 A380 will boast six spacious first-class suites (below) – positioned at the front of the aircraft’s upper deck – and the private chambers feature a separate bed and leather chair with the convenient combination letting passengers sit or sleep without needing to adjust their seat between the upright and recline modes.

The beds in the first two suites on each aisle can be converted to form a double (above), which is perfect for couples travelling together, and when not in use the bed can be stowed to create even more space inside each compartment.

Added extras include a 32-inch monitor that can swivel to be seen around the room, a personal wardrobe, customised handbag storage compartment, amenity box, and a feature wall with mood lighting.

Business class

The new business class stalls (below) are 25 inches wide, feature two “side wings” for added back support, and can move into a fully-flat bed or be set in “sundeck position” to watch movies on the 18-inch monitor.

Seats in the business cabin are arranged in a one-two-one configuration, promising direct aisle access to every passenger in that part of the plane, and a unique feature of the design is increased storage space under the seat that can carry a full-sized cabin bag.

Other features include a panel with USB ports and in-seat power, reading lights with adjustable brightness level, enlarged dining table fitted for flexibility, storage space for personal items, and thoughtful design that puts everything within easy reach.

Premium economy class

Those travellers keen on the Goldilocks’ class between business and economy haven’t been forgotten with each premium position (below) 19.5 inches wide, boasting eight-inch of recline, and pitch set at 38 inches.

Travellers will be treated to an enhanced in-flight entertainment with noise-cancelling headphones and a 13-inch monitor while other attributes include a calf rest and foot bar, individual in-seat power supply, two USB ports, a personal reading light, cocktail table, and more storage space for personal items.

Economy class

Each economy place (below) offers “more space and greater comfort through an improved design” with a focus on technology and ergonomics resulting in seats that offer added leg room, back support, and a six-way adjustable headrest.

The touch-screen monitor eliminates the need for handsets and a reading light installed beneath the seat-back screen avoids disturbing neighbours while personal storage space for small personal items, a coat hook, in-seat power supply, and footrest with adjustable positions make for a more comfortable journey.