S$2b makeover, dental-chair vibes: Singapore Airlines defends new Business Class seats after design backlash

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has spent over S$2 billion on a cabin makeover across all four travel classes, with the latest iteration of their Business Class seats drawing criticism for their clinical look. The new seats feature grey-and-yellow colour scheme and slide-out privacy doors, fully flat beds, premium leather upholstery, and adjustable in-flight LED lighting.

Critics liken the aesthetic to dental chairs and budget airlines, while praising the comfort and functionality. SIA defends the design, stating that the colour palette was carefully selected to create a contemporary, refined ambience. The new Business Class seats will be introduced on retrofitted Airbus A350-900 aircraft and new Boeing 777-9 jets starting in the second half of 2027.