Singapore Airlines Plans Major Retrofit for Airbus A350 Fleet

Singapore Airlines has announced its extensive plan to retrofit its Airbus A350 fleet, allocating US$1.1 billion for this program. This upgrade will target long-haul cabin features on its 41 Airbus A350 aircraft, introducing new options in First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy. The A350-900s, including the Ultra Long-Range (A350-900ULR) models, will receive a complete cabin overhaul, providing an enhanced travel experience for passengers flying on long-distance routes such as New York–Singapore (JFK-SIN).

As part of the retrofit, Singapore Airlines will introduce a luxurious First-Class cabin to its seven A350-900ULR aircraft. This update, geared toward long-haul flights, will offer increased comfort and privacy for First-Class travelers, creating an upgraded travel experience on routes requiring extended flight hours. Business Class on all 41 A350s will also receive a refresh, with redesigned seating and modernized cabin aesthetics focused on delivering comfort, convenience, and privacy.

The new cabin designs for both the First Class and Business Class on A350-900s will eventually feature in Singapore Airlines’ future Boeing 777-9 aircraft as well. This retrofit promises a consistent premium look across the fleet, maintaining Singapore Airlines’ standards for luxury and high-end travel.

Enhanced Premium Economy and Economy Class Experiences

Premium Economy and Economy Class cabins on the A350-900 will also see updates, improving the overall comfort and convenience offered in these sections. Singapore Airlines has included design changes in its Premium Economy and Economy Class products to meet evolving customer needs, creating a more enjoyable and modern in-flight experience for all passengers.

Singapore Airlines’ KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system (IFE) will also receive several updates as part of the A350 retrofit program. The new IFE system will offer an expanded content library, allowing for more personalization to meet individual passenger preferences. First and Business Class passengers can look forward to upgraded in-flight entertainment screens, adding to the luxury and entertainment experience on board.

The Singapore-based SIA Engineering Company will lead the cabin refurbishment, ensuring that the new interiors align with Singapore Airlines’ high standards. The first flights with these updated cabin products are set to launch by the second quarter of 2026 for standard A350-900 aircraft, followed by the A350-900ULR in the first quarter of 2027.

Singapore Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Goh Choon Phong, expressed enthusiasm about the cabin overhaul. He 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.” He also noted that Premium Economy and Economy Class passengers would enjoy refreshed interiors that elevate their travel experience.

Mr. Goh added, “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.”

A350 Cabin Configurations Post-Retrofit

Following the completion of the retrofit, Singapore Airlines’ A350 fleet will have the following seating configurations:

A350-900 (long-haul):

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

A350-900ULR:

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

With this retrofit program, Singapore Airlines aims to elevate the cabin experience, offering more options and modernized features for every class of travel.