Singapore Airlines (SIA) has announced an ambitious S$1.1 billion investment in a multi-year retrofit program to revamp the cabin experience across its Airbus A350-900 fleet, including both long-haul and ultra-long-range (ULR) aircraft. This comprehensive upgrade spans 41 aircraft and is set to elevate premium travel standards, showcasing new, luxurious First Class and Business Class cabins as well as refreshed seating in Premium Economy and Economy Class.
A major highlight of this initiative is the introduction of a dedicated First Class cabin in SIA’s seven (07) A350-900ULR aircraft, designed to cater to the increasing expectations of long-haul and ultra-long-haul travelers. These First Class seats will offer unparalleled comfort and privacy on some of the longest routes in the world, setting new benchmarks in the industry.
The upgrade will also bring redesigned Business Class seats to all 41 A350s, promising enhanced privacy, comfort, and convenience. These seats are set to feature in both the A350-900 and the upcoming Boeing B777-9 aircraft. In addition, SIA plans a refreshed look for Premium Economy and Economy cabins, ensuring a cohesive, modernized experience across all classes.
Complementing the cabin overhaul is the latest version of SIA’s KrisWorld in-flight entertainment (IFE) system, which will provide a more personalized experience and a wide selection of lifestyle options in every class. Enhanced entertainment screens will also be a feature in First and Business Class, adding another layer of luxury to the in-flight experience.
Mr. Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Airlines, said, “Over the past six years, we have extensively engaged customers and stakeholders in the design of our next-generation long-haul cabin products, anticipating their evolving preferences and expectations down to the finest detail. 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. Premium Economy Class and Economy Class customers can also look forward to refreshed cabin interiors that enhance their travel experience. 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.”
The retrofit will be carried out by SIA Engineering Company in Singapore, with the first upgraded A350-900 long-haul aircraft expected to enter service in the second quarter of 2026, followed by the A350-900ULR in early 2027. The full retrofit program is targeted for completion by the end of 2030.
Once retrofitted, the 34 A350-900 long-haul aircraft will feature 42 Business Class, 24 Premium Economy, and 192 Economy seats. The seven A350-900ULR variants will include four First Class, 70 Business Class, and 58 Premium Economy seats. SIA promises more details on its cabin products and the KrisWorld IFE system, such as the launch dates of the first Boeing B777-9 and the retrofitted A350-900 approach.