Lounge Act
Singapore Airlines debuts a sumptuous suite of spaces for its elite passengers
is SINGAPORE AIRLINES putting a polish on post-pandemic flying, starting with the opening of its flagship lounge system in Terminal 3 of Changi Airport in Singapore. Firstand business-class passengers, those who've booked one of the airline's new Suites (available on A380s only), Solitaire PPS Club members, and those holding KrisFlyer Elite Gold cards have access to a lofty labyrinth of predeparture pampering. The space draws in the cathedral-like heights of Changi’s futuristic architecture while also allowing for intimate, comfortable and private resting spots with varying levels of amenities.
I found the new designs to be impressive, highlighting the airport’s expansive motifs with views over the shopping concourse. But the true magic lies in the small sleeping and resting places.
A Rest Unlike the Rest
As I had just flown in from New York, it was clear to me the SQ lounges were designed with the weary air warrior in mind. Private resting compartments are of particular importance to passengers taking Singapore Airlines’ long hauls.
Sleepy travelers in the new business-class lounge can access a commodious room with 14 private cubicles where they can rest for hours on curvy, cushiony loungers. Side tables provide connectivity and adjustable reading lights.
As for the rest of the spaces, there are many spots for conversations, dining, working and meetings. Ergonomically designed cubicles are perfect for quick dips into work while recharging devices. For families, glassed-off playrooms offer toys and beanbags as well as adult chairs and television news. The Private Room—an exclusive area for airport tête-à-têtes—features a garden of Lalique ginger flowers and original glass-blown ceiling designs accented by dark woods and textiles. Handsome marble shower rooms are offered in all the lounges and improve through the status tiers with added spacing and more generous amenities. Permeating throughout is a calming perfume created by Scent by Six with notes of local flora such as aquatic ginger and Utania nervosa.
Sip and Savor
Cocktail hour does not disappoint, and spirits edge up as the layout flows from one lounge to another. Several bars offer not only cocktails, including crimson-hued Singapore slings, but also entrées and American breakfasts.
Those passengers holding a KrisFlyer Elite Gold card—with 50,000 miles earned within a year through flights on Singapore Airlines and its partners—can enter a dedicated revamped and greatly expanded lounge with panoramic views of the runway. The new lounge offers augmented dining facilities, improved relaxation and working spaces and plenty of fresh dim sum.
New Zealand sauvignon blancs are on tap, as are Australian pinots. Champagne might be Taittinger or Piper-Heidsieck. Other labels are found in cooling dispensers lining the walls. singaporeair.com