Singapore Airlines unveils next-generation seats backed by $2b investment

Singapore Airlines on Monday unveiled next-generation long-haul cabin seats backed by an investment of more than 2 billion Singapore dollars ($1.5 billion), covering all four cabin classes — first, business, premium economy and economy — along with upgrades to in-flight service and airport lounges.

The new first class centers on privacy and space. Curved sliding doors create a private suite, and the two center seats can be converted into a two-person sofa or a double bed. The airline said the double bed is the largest on any commercial aircraft. The seats are upholstered in premium Poltrona Frau leather.

In addition, the seats feature what the airline says is a world-first smart seat control system that saves each customer's preferred seat position and lighting settings for use on future travel.

Business class gains sliding doors and motorized aisle dividers for added privacy. Some center seats can be configured into a shared bed for travel companions. The seats feature ergonomic back and leg support, and the fully flat bed stretches 79 inches.

The new premium economy class on the Boeing 777-9 offers a 40-inch seat pitch, with adjustable headrests and leg and footrests, along with personal storage and a device holder. Economy class receives ergonomic cushioning and an improved recline mechanism that widens the knee area.

The new seats will be introduced in phases from the second half of 2027, covering 41 Airbus A350-900 long-haul and ultra-long-range aircraft undergoing retrofits as well as newly delivered Boeing 777-9s. The 777-9 will carry all four new cabin classes. The A350-900 long-haul and ultra-long-range variants will receive the new business class, with the ultra-long-range aircraft also debuting the new first class.

Singapore Airlines will also overhaul the in-flight experience as previously announced, introducing a next-generation KrisWorld entertainment system with 4K touchscreens and Starlink high-speed internet. The airline will add more than 100 new meal options, Christofle tableware, and Sisley and Byredo amenity kits, and will offer pure cotton pajamas in business class.

The airline is also investing in airport services, committing more than 130 million Singapore dollars ($96 million) to renovate and expand its SilverKris lounges at Singapore's Changi Airport and other locations worldwide, with improvements to seating, dining, and work and rest areas. At Changi, Suite and first class customers will receive dedicated concierge-based ground services, including priority immigration and security clearance and buggy transfers between key areas of the terminal.

Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong said the announcement marks "an important milestone and a testament to Singapore Airlines' unwavering commitment to transforming the travel experience for our customers," adding that the airline continues to invest so customers can travel more comfortably and conveniently at every stage of their journey.

"The heartfelt care, professionalism and dedicated service of our people remain at the core of the Singapore Airlines customer experience," Goh added. "We will continue to earn the trust and loyalty of our customers and strengthen our leadership in the aviation industry."