Singapore Airlines unveils larger double bed in first class
The S$2bn upgrade targets wealthy travellers as airlines compete on luxury seating while fuel costs rise.
Key points
- Singapore Airlines plans a S$2bn cabin upgrade with a first-class double bed for two, according to The Guardian.
- The bed spans two adjoining seats and is longer and wider than a standard UK double mattress.
- Economy passengers will get more leg space, upgraded entertainment and onboard internet via Starlink.
- The new cabins are due to be introduced from the second half of 2027.
Singapore Airlines has announced a S$2bn (£1.2bn) cabin upgrade that includes a first-class double bed for two travellers. According to The Guardian, the airline says the bed is the largest of its kind in commercial aviation. The new cabins are expected to arrive from the second half of 2027.
What the new first-class bed offers
The double bed is formed by joining two adjoining seats. It measures 203cm long and 152cm wide, which is larger than a standard double mattress in the UK at 190cm by 135cm. Bedding comes from Paradies, a German luxury brand, and includes a mattress topper, a duvet and a range of pillow options.
Some business-class seats can also be converted into a double bed, the airline said. The first-class upgrade adds curved sliding doors for more privacy, along with ultra-high-definition 4K touchscreens.
Changes for economy and business passengers
Economy travellers will gain extra leg space and a redesigned layout for storing personal items. All passengers will receive an updated in-flight entertainment system and a wider meal selection.
The airline also plans to offer onboard internet through Starlink, the satellite company owned by Elon Musk. Together, these changes aim to make long-haul flights more comfortable across all cabin classes.
A competitive race in luxury travel
Premium air travel has become a fierce contest between carriers. Reports note that a one-way ticket in the most expensive cabins can cost more than £10,000. Skytrax, a research firm, named Singapore Airlines the top overall carrier in the world this year, yet the airline has lost market share to competitors that have heavily invested in cabin improvements.
In 2022 Emirates began a fleet-wide overhaul worth $5bn, which included upgrades to its first-class suites with extra room and newer technology. Earlier this year, Air France unveiled La Première, a rebuilt first-class product that the carrier compares to travelling on a private aircraft. British Airways is also developing a new first-class cabin for its A380 aircraft.
Fuel prices and shifting routes
The wider industry has faced pressure this year from higher fuel prices, which followed the war in the Middle East. Those costs have pushed up fares for passengers. Singapore Airlines has nonetheless seen gains, as more travellers choose direct flights between Asia and Europe instead of connecting through Gulf hubs.
The report does not include a breakdown of how the S$2bn will be spent. It also gives no detail on pricing for the new seats.
Frequently asked questions
When will Singapore Airlinesu0026#039; new cabins be available?
According to The Guardian, the airline said the new cabins will be introduced from the second half of 2027. No earlier dates were given in the report.
How large is the new first-class double bed?
The bed spans two adjoining seats and measures 203cm long and 152cm wide. The airline says it is the largest double bed in commercial aviation.
Will economy passengers also benefit from the upgrade?
Yes, economy passengers will gain more leg space and a new storage layout for personal items. All passengers will also get upgraded in-flight entertainment and onboard internet via Starlink.
Sources
- The Guardian: Dream ticket? Super-rich can sleep pretty with Singapore Airlines ‘largest double bed in the sky’
This article was written with the help of AI from reports by the outlets listed above. See our Editorial Policy. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
