Travelers booking flights on the world’s longest nonstop commercial route can soon look forward to an even more luxurious experience. Singapore Airlines (SIA), ranked the second-best airline globally by Skytrax in 2024, is investing 1.1 billion Singapore dollars (approximately $821 million) in a multi-year program to upgrade the cabins of its Airbus A350-900 fleet.
As part of this significant overhaul, the airline will introduce new first-class seats on its seven Airbus A350-900ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft. These planes currently operate SIA’s world-renowned nonstop flights between Singapore and New York, which span an impressive 9,500 miles and take between 18 to 19 hours. With the new upgrades, each of these seven aircraft will feature four first-class suites, 70 business-class seats, and 58 premium economy seats.
Although details of the retrofit are limited, Singapore Airlines has teased images of its newly designed business-class seats, which will now include a sliding door for added privacy. The airline emphasizes that the changes aim to cater to an increasingly discerning passenger base, offering an unparalleled in-flight experience.
The airline’s 34 Airbus A350-900 long-haul aircraft will also be receiving upgrades. These planes will include 42 business-class seats, 24 premium economy seats, and 192 economy seats. The first retrofitted A350-900 aircraft is set to enter service in the second quarter of 2026, with the A350-900ULR variant following in 2027. Additionally, these new designs will also be incorporated into SIA’s upcoming Boeing 777-9 aircraft, further elevating the long-haul travel experience.
Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Airlines, Goh Choon Phong, highlighted the extensive consultation with customers over the past six years in shaping the new cabin designs. The aim is to push the boundaries of comfort, luxury, and modernity, offering passengers a seamless experience whether they choose to relax or work during their flight.
For those eager to experience Singapore Airlines’ existing luxury offerings, first-class seats are currently available on its Boeing 777 planes, as well as private “suites” on its Airbus A380 aircraft.
A New Longest Flight?
While Singapore Airlines currently holds the title for the world’s longest nonstop commercial flight, Qantas is preparing to challenge that distinction. The Australian airline’s much-anticipated “Project Sunrise,” set to launch in 2026, will offer flights from Sydney to New York and London, with flight durations potentially reaching 20 hours. Specially configured Airbus A350-1000 jets will be used for these ultra-long-haul flights.
As Qantas prepares for this ambitious new venture, the future of nonstop commercial flights looks set to redefine global air travel, combining cutting-edge technology with enhanced passenger comfort.
