Two years earlier, I had the chance to experience Singapore Airlines’ route from Singapore to New York, and it was unforgettable. It was a major milestone on my AvGeek list, and I had a fantastic time.
Curiously, I pondered how I could ever surpass such a journey. Eventually, I figured the only way would be to fly the route back, which has a slightly longer flying time and offers more luxurious comforts. After some waiting and managing to snag a lucky booking, the opportunity finally arose.
Onboard Experience
When I flew from Singapore to New York City in 2023, strong tailwinds allowed us to achieve great time, landing in under 17 hours. However, heading back would be a considerable 19-hour flight. The thought of over 19 consecutive hours in the air was daunting for any traveler.
Surprisingly, my initial worries were unfounded. The long flight proved to be enjoyable from start to finish, thanks to the comfortable seat, stunning views, multitude of entertainment options, and the famous Singapore service. I also discovered the special features designed for ultra-long-haul flights that make the experience enjoyable for passengers.
As the flight progressed, I recalled a classic story from the AirlineReporter archives where David Parker Brown flew the older version of this route back in 2013 operated by an Airbus A340-500. If you’re interested in a historical perspective, you might find it interesting to compare.
Arrival at New York JFK
At JFK, Singapore Airlines operates out of Terminal 4, where they do not have a dedicated lounge. Passengers flying business class had the option to use partner lounges such as the PrimeClass lounge or request a meal voucher.
Long-haul boarding usually starts about an hour before takeoff; however, since Singapore’s A350-900ULRs have a low-density configuration, boarding began only 30 minutes prior. Many passengers eagerly lined up due to the lengthy time they would be spending within the cabin.
Unique Fleet
Singapore boasts a distinct sub-fleet of only nine A350-900ULRs, offering remarkable range and capabilities, allowing for 20 hours of uninterrupted flying.
This ultra-long-haul configuration is designed for passenger comfort, eliminating economy class to maximize comfort and reduce weight. The aircraft has two spacious business class cabins and a premium economy section, accommodating only 161 passengers.
Comfortable Seating
Onboard, I moved to my seat in the front business cabin, designed impressively, with various features and individual amenities. The cabin layout offers a 1-2-1 arrangement, ensuring a level of privacy thanks to dividers. My chosen window seat was broader than expected, providing an excellent view through one of the windows despite another being obstructed.
Dining and Amenities
Singapore Airlines has distinguished itself by offering unique dining options, including partnerships with renowned suppliers. Meals were thoughtfully presented, and both the quality of the food and service were commendable. I enjoyed multiple meals throughout the flight, including a standout dish of Moroccan grilled lamb chops paired with salads cultivated from AeroFarms.
Overall, the crew provided highly attentive service and consistently made efforts to ensure passenger comfort. In-flight amenities included reading lights, extensive IFE options, and a quiet cabin atmosphere, allowing for restful sleep, despite the long travel duration.
As the flight concluded with a smooth descent into Changi, I reflected on the overall experience, noting not only the novelty of the journey but the exceptional service standard set by Singapore Airlines. From the welcoming crew to the outstanding food, it is an experience I would recommend to anyone considering long-haul travel.
