NEW YORK, October 12, 2018 – Signaling a significant expansion of its U.S. operations, Singapore Airlines today re-launched its signature New York (EWR)-Singapore nonstop service, reclaiming the record for the world’s longest commercial nonstop flight at a scheduled 18:45 minutes duration. The carrier is the launch customer of the A350-900ULR (ultra-long-range) aircraft used in today’s flight, with seven new aircraft slated for delivery in support of additional nonstop service debuts from Los Angeles and San Francisco to Singapore later this year.
The inaugural flight, configured with 161 seats in Business and Premium Economy classes, departed Newark Liberty International Airport today at 10:48 a.m., with an estimated scheduled arrival time in Singapore at 5:30 p.m. (all times local).
“This is an historic day in aviation not only for SIA, but for travelers who are interested in time savings, enhanced comfort, and the fastest means of travel between New York and Singapore,” said Mr. Sek Eng Lee, Regional Vice President – Americas. “By the end of 2018, new ultra-long-range nonstop flights will help us grow our flight frequency by 32 percent, giving travelers more options and marking one of the most significant expansions in our U.S. history.”
It’s About Time: Fastest Way To Singapore
A key benefit of the relaunched flight is the 4-6 hours of total travel time savings it provides over one-stop services. It is designed to appeal mainly to time-stressed business travelers, as well as the premium leisure market.
SIA’s new nonstop flight will operate three-times-weekly from October 12, with daily departures from Newark beginning on October 19, 2018. The aircraft is configured in two classes of service, with 67 Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout, and room for 94 Premium Economy passengers (2-4-2).
New, Wellness-Focused Inflight Experience
Building on 10 years’ experience operating record-breaking nonstop services, SIA’s new “world’s longest” flight includes a balance of technology and passenger comfort innovations, all designed to provide passengers an enhanced travel experience. Technology improvements over previous ultra-long-haul aircraft operated by SIA include air filtration with cabin air replaced every two minutes; reduced cabin pressurization (6,000 ft. altitude instead of 8,000 ft.); and 16 million LED-based lighting combinations allowing flight attendants to simulate sunrise, sunset and other time periods. The aircraft also feature higher ceilings and larger windows to create a more spacious interior.
SIA has also announced a partnership with Canyon Ranch, a leading wellness brand, introducing a series of sleep, exercise and dining strategies for enhanced well-being during long flights. Several new Canyon Ranch meals designed specifically for SIA ultra-long-haul services debuted on today’s flight and will be offered on an expanded basis on selected SIA flights.