Singapore Airlines Shifts $1.6 Billion Upgrade to A350s Amid 777-9 Delays

Passengers on Singapore Airlines' long-haul routes will soon encounter major changes in their cabins as the carrier redirects a S$2 billion ($1.6 billion) upgrade program toward its Airbus A350 fleet. The shift responds to continued delays in receiving Boeing 777-9 aircraft, forcing the airline to bring premium amenities to older planes before the new jets arrive.

The company first expected to take delivery of the 777-9 in 2021. Boeing’s third-quarter earnings report confirmed that the first customer delivery will not occur until 2027. Lee Lik Hsin, the airline’s Chief Commercial Officer, cited these delays during a November 4 media briefing as the reason for installing the new products on the A350. It remains unclear if Singapore Airlines will be a launch customer for the delayed jet.

Beginning in mid-2027, first-class passengers on long-haul A350 flights will access 32-inch 4K screens and Bang and Olufsen noise-cancelling headphones. The airline will also offer double-bed arrangements and face-to-face dining configurations in this class. Business-class seats will feature 22-inch 4K screens, wireless charging pads, and Bluetooth audio connectivity. These same premium specifications are scheduled for the 777-9 fleet when those planes finally enter service.

The 777-9 fleet will receive smaller, exclusive updates. Premium economy seats will gain one additional inch of recline, while economy seats will get new upholstery. Both classes on the 777-9 will install new 4K seatback entertainment screens. Tan Kai Ping, the Chief Operating Officer, stated during a May results briefing that the 777-9 would not join the fleet during the financial year ending March 2027.

The investment comes as Singapore Airlines retains its Skytrax World's Best Airline award for 2026 and the World's Best Economy Class title. Qatar Airways won the business class category, while Air France took the first class award. The airline plans to launch Starlink internet on nearly all Airbus aircraft, excluding the medium-haul A350 variant, starting in the first quarter of 2027. This update covers roughly half of the current fleet.

Additional service changes announced in September include new menus and custom Christofle serviceware for premium cabins. First-class passengers will receive Sisley amenity kits, while business-class travelers will get BYREDO kits and sleepwear for the first time on the carrier.

Separate spending includes S$130 million for the renovation of Silverkris lounges. The airline is also introducing a curb-side service for Suites and First Class passengers at Singapore Changi Airport. This package includes concierge assistance, priority immigration and security clearance, and buggy transfers.