‍DALLAS — Singapore Airlines (SQ) announced on November 4, 2024, the launch of the Airbus A350 Cabin Retrofit Program with a budget of US$1.1 billion. The program targets mainly long-haul cabin products across its 41 Airbus A350 fleet.

The novelty of this retrofit is the addition of a luxurious First-Class cabin in its seven A350-900ULR, offering an unmatched flight experience for long flight journeys with the like of the New York – Singapore route (JFK-SIN). The Business Class will also have an upgrade from the currently offered product on all 41 SQ’s A350s. Cabin modifications will include improved levels of comfort, privacy, and convenience.

The First Class and Business Class products for the A350-900s will be completely redesigned from the beginning, allowing for a fresh new cabin look for this aircraft type. These same new cabin products will feature in the upcoming Boeing 777-9 aircraft, which will join Singapore Airlines’ fleet somewhere in the future. Premium Economy and Economy Class products in the Airbus A350-900s will be modified for an enhanced travel experience.

Moreover, SQ’s KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system (IFE) will have some improvements by offering a more extensive range of options and greater personalization tailored to customers’ needs. On the other hand, First Class and Business Class products will have novel in-flight entertainment screens.

SIA Engineering Company, based in Singapore, will refurbish the cabin interior. First flight operations for these new products are expected for the second quarter of 2026 for the standard A350-900 and the first quarter of 2027 for the Ultra Long-Range variant.

Comments from Airline CEO, Retrofit Configurations

Commenting on the retrofit program, Mr. Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Airlines, said: “The new First Class and Business Class seat designs will incorporate thoughtful elements that push the boundaries of comfort, luxury, and modernity, allowing our customers to relax or work effortlessly on board. Premium Economy Class and Economy Class customers can also look forward to refreshed cabin interiors that enhance their travel experience.”

“The S$1.1 billion investment in retrofitting our 41 A350 aircraft reaffirms Singapore Airlines’ unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional travel experience. The introduction of these next-generation seats and KrisWorld system, together with the world-renowned warm and attentive service of our cabin crew, will set new standards in innovation, customer experience, and service excellence.” He added.

Once completed, the A350 fleet will be configured as follows:

A350-900 long-haul aircraft:

• 43 Business Class seats
• 24 Premium Economy Class seats
• 192 Economy Class seats

A350-900ULR aircraft:

• 4 First Class seats
• 70 Business Class seats
• 58 Premium Economy Class seats