TRIED AND TESTED FLIGHTS

SINGAPORE–SYDNEY

Singapore Airlines’ new A380: business class SIN-SYD, and premium economy SIN-LHR

BACKGROUND

Singapore Airlines is retiring the five oldest A380s in its fleet and welcoming five new ones, each with a revamped layout, cabins and new seats. This was the new aircraft’s first commercial flight to Sydney.

BOARDING

I was on a transit from Hong Kong, arriving into Changi airport’s Terminal 3, with a ten-minute walk to gate B7 from where flight SQ221 was taking off. Additional security screening at the gate was efficient.

THESE AT

Fans of SIA’s current A380 business class seats – also found on the A350 and retrofitted B777-300ERs – will find a number of familiar features. Firstly, seats are wide and solid, set in large shells with a grey and orange trim that looks like a luxury sports car. Secondly, most seats are designed with an angled space for legs to go once fully flat, which is best for those who sleep on their side. Working with legs extended is also a bit awkward, as you need to position your body diagonally. Bulkhead seats are the exception, as these extend straight forward. Bedding is provided for each seat, including a mattress cover, pillow and blanket.

The new seats do have more storage space, notably a large footwell for carry-on luggage, plus multiple smaller compartments and surface areas. Next to the main three-pin plug and USB outlet is a magazine holder, which is great for storing a laptop, while an elevated platform next to your shoulder has space for a smartphone or tablet while it charges using the second USB outlet. There’s also an adjustable light and a mirror here, and a hidden compartment by the screen for yet more space.

One downside of the new seat design is a tighter 25-inch width, which doesn’t feel cramped, but it’s certainly not as roomy as its predecessor – though small stowable armrests do help to maximise space. It is possible to feel this reduced width when lying down compared to the older seat – the new one isn’t cramped, but it lacks the same expansive feel as the fully flat bed of its predecessor. However, the width is helped somewhat by the armrests, which are simply small cushioned flaps that can be stowed, meaning you’re not squeezed in by them when they are tucked out of the way.

Seat controls are easy to use, but are also quite sensitive. On more than one occasion I found myself inadvertently reclining my chair or summoning a member of the cabin crew because I’d accidentally leaned on one of the control buttons.

BEST SEAT

Those who like to lie straight should aim for the bulkhead seats (the centre two can also form a double bed). For working, the window seats are superior, offering more solid fixtures, storage space and a greater sense of privacy. My seat 22A was just one row in front of the toilets – rows 13-20 would probably be best.

THE FLIGHT

Once on board, I was offered a sparkling rosé wine and hot flannel. Orders were taken for a post take-off drink and I opted for a gin and tonic (which could’ve done with more gin).

We departed about 30 minutes late, taking off at 2110. Food orders were taken 20 minutes into the flight and served shortly after. This included a Parma ham and goat milk ricotta starter, then four main course options: seared black cod à la nicoise; beef fillet in mustard-herb crust with red wine sauce; north Indian chicken biryani, or wokfried seafood in a garlic and ginger sauce. I opted for the seafood, which was light and refreshing.

The IFE options were comprehensive, with a large library of films, TV shows and movies. The new A380s also have the airline’s latest offering, MyKrisworld, which allows Krisflyer members to create and save their own playlists for future flights (films watched on previous Singapore Airlines flights can also be resumed from where you left off). Passengers also have the option of connecting their device to the screen to watch downloaded series or play games. After dinner, I made my bed up and then reclined my seat to catch a few hours of sleep. Breakfast was served 80 minutes before we landed, comprising fresh fruit, coffee, juice and a croissant.

ARRIVAL

We landed at Sydney Airport at 0730, on time despite the 30-minute delay. Premium passengers are given an “Express” pass, which expedites the immigration process in Sydney providing you fill out the entry declaration form (without answering “yes” to the customs questions) and have fewer than two checked bags. Immigration was therefore swift, taking just over ten minutes, and my bag was already waiting for me at the belt by the time I got through.

VERDICT

This is a thoroughly comfortable seat and one in which Singapore Airlines has emphasised the “business” part of business class. While it may be a slightly tighter squeeze than the older product when it comes to sleeping, the addition of numerous smaller storage spaces makes this an easy environment in which to work.

SIA is retiring the oldest A380s and welcoming five new ones, each with a revamped layout, cabins and new seat products