Singapore Airlines pushes back new first, business class seats on A350s to second half of 2027

Singapore Airlines is investing more than US$1.6 billion to upgrade long-haul seats and introduce larger double-bed suites, aiming to compete with rivals investing heavily in premium cabins. The airline unveiled new cabins across all four classes in a historic overhaul, with the final touches set to be completed by the second half of 2027.

In first class, center seats will transform into the largest double bed in commercial aviation, while business class will feature sliding privacy doors and fully flat beds. The investment comes amid global carriers' efforts to bolster premium travel despite production and certification delays for new seats. Fuel costs and reduced margins have deterred cost-conscious passengers, but premium travel has remained resilient.

Singapore Airlines, which owns 72 aircraft, will retrofit Airbus A350-900s and use Boeing 777-9 jets expected to become its new long-haul flagship. The program, funded by the airline's strong cash balance, aims to maintain its market leadership through superior product, service, operational excellence, and people.