Singapore Airlines (SIA) returned triumphantly to Melbourne as its flagship Airbus A380 touched down at Tullamarine Airport for the first time since January 2020. The arrival of flight SQ237 at 09:30 marked a significant milestone for SIA, with the airline’s operations in Melbourne now operating at 110% of the levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The increased capacity provided by the A380 comes as a response to the robust demand for travel during the peak Northern Summer holiday period. Singapore Airlines Regional Vice President South West Pacific, Mr Louis Arul, expressed his pleasure at returning the A380 to Melbourne, emphasizing the popularity of Victoria as a destination.
Melbourne Airport CEO, Ms Lorie Argus, hailed the resumption of Singapore Airlines’ A380 service as a vote of confidence in the Victorian market. She pointed out that the A380 has over 200 more seats than the Boeing 777 it replaces on this route, which is a massive win for consumers. With seamless connections to a wide range of destinations in Southeast Asia, India, and Europe, these A380 flights from Melbourne are expected to be popular among travellers.
The A380 will operate daily between Singapore and Melbourne under flight numbers SQ237 and SQ228 until October 28, 2023. The aircraft boasts an array of luxurious amenities, including six spacious Suites on the upper deck, 78 Business Class seats on the upper deck, 44 Premium Economy seats at the front of the main deck, and 343 ergonomically designed Economy Class seats.
Singapore Airlines Suites provide customers with an exclusive and intimate travel experience. Each Suite features a separate full-flat bed, a plush leather chair, and a 32-inch full HD monitor. Couples travelling together can convert the beds in the first two Suites of each aisle into a double bed, offering a unique level of comfort and privacy. The Suites cabin also includes lavatories and other premium features designed to provide a touch of luxury.
Business Class passengers will enjoy a modern and organic colour scheme and a comfortable full-flat bed upholstered by Poltrona Frau. The seats can recline into a “sun-deck” position, allowing customers to relax while enjoying the 18-inch high-definition touch-screen monitor. The Business Class seats are arranged in a forward-facing, four-abreast configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers.
Premium Economy Class offers a contemporary and stylish design, with features such as noise-cancelling headphones, a 13.3-inch full HD monitor, and enhanced in-flight entertainment. The 19.5-inch wide seats provide ample space, with calf rests and foot bars for added comfort. The cabin also includes individual power supplies, USB ports, and extra storage for personal items.
Economy Class passengers will benefit from improved seat design, offering more legroom and back support. The seats have a six-way adjustable headrest, foldable wings, and an 11.1-inch touch-screen monitor. Additional features include non-intrusive reading lights, personal storage space, an in-seat power supply, and an ergonomically designed footrest.
With the resumption of the A380 service, Singapore Airlines aims to cater to the growing travel demand and provide a superior flying experience to its passengers. For more information and bookings, visit Singapore Airlines’ official website at www.singaporeair.com.
Written by: Anne Keam