Singapore Airlines (SIA) is transforming the premium travel experience with an ambitious S$1.1 billion retrofit of its Airbus A350-900 long-haul and ultra-long-range (ULR) aircraft. This multi-year project aims to deliver next-generation comfort, privacy, and luxury across its cabins, positioning SIA as a leader in premium aviation and setting new benchmarks for in-flight experience on some of the world’s longest routes.
This comprehensive upgrade involves 41 Airbus A350 aircraft, including seven A350-900ULRs, used for the airline’s longest flights, and will provide an unprecedented experience for travellers. These upgrades are scheduled to debut on SIA’s A350-900 long-haul fleet in the second quarter of 2026, with the complete transformation anticipated by the end of 2030.
Singapore Airlines First Class.
First Class Cabins Redefine Long-Haul Luxury
The centrepiece of SIA’s upgrade lies in the newly designed First Class cabins for the A350-900ULR aircraft. With only four suites per plane, these first-class cabins are designed for an intimate and exclusive travel experience. SIA has developed these suites with the discerning traveller in mind, blending elegance, privacy, and ultimate comfort. This commitment to an elevated in-flight journey reflects the airline’s dedication to capturing the market of affluent, long-haul travellers who prioritize a premium experience.
The suites will feature spacious seating, enhanced privacy, and refined aesthetics. Each suite is designed to provide a sanctuary in the sky, allowing passengers to relax, sleep, or work in peace. The cabin will also include upgraded in-flight entertainment with large, high-resolution screens and customizable features for a personalized journey.
Business Class Upgrades Enhance Privacy and Comfort
Business Class passengers will also experience an upgrade, with redesigned seats providing enhanced privacy, comfort, and convenience. The 42 Business Class seats on the retrofitted A350-900s and 70 on the ULR models have been thoughtfully crafted to maximize space and privacy. These seats are expected to feature ergonomic designs, modern aesthetics, and additional storage, meeting the needs of both business and leisure travellers.
SIA’s new Business Class seats mirror the anticipated designs for the airline’s upcoming Boeing 777-9 fleet, ensuring a consistent luxury experience across aircraft types. Each seat will have a high-resolution screen for KrisWorld, the airline’s updated in-flight entertainment system.
Premium Economy and Economy Classes Receive Thoughtful Upgrades
Recognizing the importance of comfort across all cabin classes, SIA refreshes the Premium Economy and Economy Class cabins. The retrofitted A350-900s will feature 24 Premium Economy seats and 192 Economy seats, while the A350-900ULR models will include 58 Premium Economy seats. The upgrades promise enhanced seating comfort, modernized interiors, and a welcoming ambience.
KrisWorld In-Flight Entertainment Gets a Makeover
Complementing the cabin upgrades, SIA’s KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system will undergo a significant enhancement. The updated KrisWorld will deliver a more personalized experience, catering to various preferences and interests. First- and Business-Class passengers can expect larger, high-definition screens and a more intuitive interface, while all passengers will enjoy expanded content options.
KrisWorld’s new features reflect the airline’s focus on merging technology with comfort. Passengers will have access to a curated selection of entertainment options, allowing them to personalize their in-flight experience. This upgrade aims to elevate in-flight entertainment to the standard expected from a luxury airline.
Strategic Investments Reflecting SIA’s Commitment to Customer Experience
SIA’s retrofit program underscores its commitment to leading the global aviation industry in customer satisfaction. According to Mr. Goh Choon Phong, Singapore Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer, the initiative reflects years of collaboration and research into customer preferences.
“Over the past six years, we have extensively engaged customers and stakeholders in designing our next-generation long-haul cabin products, anticipating their evolving preferences and expectations down to the finest detail,” Mr Goh shared. “This investment reaffirms Singapore Airlines’ unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience.”
The retrofit, executed by SIA Engineering Company in Singapore, aligns with the airline’s long-term strategy of staying ahead in the premium travel sector. SIA aims to reinforce its position as a global luxury air travel leader by investing in product and service innovation.
Timeline and Fleet Configuration
The first retrofitted A350-900 long-haul aircraft is slated for service in Q2 2026, with the A350-900ULR variant expected to follow in Q1 2027. Upon completion, the A350-900 long-haul fleet will include 42 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 192 Economy seats. At the same time, the ULR version will feature four First Class suites, 70 Business Class seats, and 58 Premium Economy seats.
This ambitious timeline demonstrates SIA’s readiness to adapt to the evolving aviation landscape and meet the demands of a growing luxury travel market. The upgraded fleet will also be complemented by the introduction of the Boeing 777-9 aircraft with similar high-end cabin configurations.
Conclusion: A New Era of Premium Travel
SIA’s S$1.1 billion A350 retrofit program marks a new era in the airline’s journey, setting an unprecedented standard for luxury travel. Combining state-of-the-art cabin products, enhanced in-flight entertainment, and world-renowned service, SIA can lead the global aviation industry in premium travel experiences.
Travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike can look forward to detailed announcements about these upgrades as the program progresses. Singapore Airlines is once again pushing the boundaries of what is possible in luxury air travel, reaffirming its position as a premier choice for discerning passengers worldwide.
For more details, visit Singapore Airlines’ official website and stay updated on the latest innovations in premium air travel.
Written by: Michelle Warner
