Singapore Airlines to start new London Gatwick service.

One of the leading global carriers, Singapore Airlines has confirmed it will start direct flights between its home base of Singapore and London's second busiest airport - London Gatwick from next summer.

Subject to regulatory approval, flight SQ310 will operate on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The inaugural flight will depart Singapore for Gatwick Airport at 2355hrs (local time) on 21 June 2024 and arrive in London at 0625hrs (local time) on 22 June 2024.

Singapore Airlines will deploy the long-haul variant of its Airbus A350-900 aircraft on the route which features 253 seats in three cabin classes: 42 in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy Class, and 187 in Economy Class.

The return leg, flight SQ309, will operate from Gatwick Airport to Singapore on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The inaugural return flight will depart at 1015hrs (local time) on 22 June 2024 and arrive in Singapore at 0620hrs on 23 June 2024. The early morning arrival offers customers options to connect to SIA and Scoot flights to destinations across Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

Together with its current four-times daily services to London’s Heathrow Airport, this will bring the total number of flights to the United Kingdom’s (UK) capital to 33 weekly services from today’s 28 weekly services. SIA also operates five times a week services to Manchester Airport.

Mr Dai Haoyu, Acting Senior Vice President of Marketing Planning, at Singapore Airlines, said: "London has always been a very important market for the Singapore Airlines Group. With the introduction of this new service to London’s Gatwick Airport, Singapore Airlines’ customers will have an additional flight to choose from when flying between Singapore and the UK. It also opens up additional travel options to other points in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.”

Mr Stewart Wingate, Chief Executive Officer, London Gatwick, said: “Renowned as one of the world’s best carriers, we are delighted to welcome Singapore Airlines to London Gatwick. It showcases the high regard in which Gatwick is held, and connecting to the impressive Changi Airport is a big boost for the whole region. For passengers across London and the South East, the new route will provide huge connectivity potential, not only to the fantastic destination of Singapore, but more widely across South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand. With significant increases in trade between the UK and Singapore in recent years, the service also provides exciting opportunities for local and regional businesses.

 

Passengers arriving from Singapore will benefit from London Gatwick’s outstanding connections, with our newly redesigned train station providing direct access to the heart of London in less than 30 minutes, alongside services to world-famous cities such as Cambridge and the UK’s beautiful south coast.”

Tickets for SIA’s flights to London’s Gatwick Airport will be progressively made available for sale through the various distribution channels from tomorrow - 19 December 2023.

The announcement has been welcomed by industry professionals and travellers alike,  Kenny McNatty of a Crawley-based financial services company said,  "This is wonderful news, we have offices in both Hong Kong and Singapore,  so this new direct flight will save the trek over to Heathrow and make it so much easier to get to and from the airport." 

The airline also recently announced the strengthening of its strategic partnership with Marriott International, which provides members of Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel programme, and KrisFlyer, the SIA Group’s lifestyle rewards programme, with more ways to maximise their benefits.

Eligible members of the two programmes may receive a status match and take advantage of an accelerated pathway to obtain a higher elite status. The expansion of this collaboration is in addition to the two-way points and miles transfer benefits for members of both programmes that was announced in January 2023, and allows them to convert their Marriott Bonvoy points into KrisFlyer miles and vice versa.

Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines offer four weekly designated Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) flights to Singapore

As of 21 October 2021, Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will offer quarantine-free travel with designated Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) flights to Singapore from Paris and Amsterdam.

Through its hubs, Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport and Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport, Air France and KLM will tap into their complementary network and offer four weekly designated VTL flights and six weekly non-designated VTL flights to Singapore.

As of 21 October 2021, Air France will offer two weekly designated VTL flights from Paris-CDG every Thursday and Saturday until 31 October 2021, and as of 1 November 2021, every Friday and Sunday.

As of 01 November 2021, KLM will offer two weekly designated VTL flights from Amsterdam every Monday and Saturday.

Located 57 storeys up from the heart of the Marina Bay area, the SkyPark Observation Deck boasts scenic views of the panoramic vistas of Marina Bay and Singapore’s world-class cityscape. Photo Visit Singapore

Roland Coppens, General Manager Air France KLM South East Asia and Oceania commented, "We fully understand that people want to travel and reconnect with family and friends, and we are excited to resume leisure and business travel to Singapore. Air France and KLM have created a complementary network with four weekly designated VTL flights to Singapore, as well as six non-designated VTL flights from Paris and Amsterdam. With our extensive Air France KLM network, we are able to connect many VTL countries via our dual hubs in Paris and Amsterdam, with flexible ticket conditions."

HKTB and STB Collaborate to Welcome Travellers on the Launch of the Bilateral, All-Purpose and Quarantine-Free Air Travel Bubble

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) on 11th November announced a collaboration to welcome the launch of the Hong Kong-Singapore Air Travel Bubble (ATB), ahead of the departure of the first flights on 22 November 2020. 

The Hong Kong-Singapore Air Travel Bubble – a bilateral, all-purpose and quarantine-free arrangement – is a milestone for the global tourism industry, and paves the way for a safe resumption of international travel. The partnership between the HKTB and the STB is also the first between the two tourism boards. It demonstrates the close ties between the two destinations as well as a mutual commitment to provide visitors with a safe travel experience. 

18 hours non-stop and counting..........the power behind ultra-long-range flights

We want to get where we’re going as quickly and as easily as possible. Travellers prefer non-stop flights to journeys with a break because they avoid the stresses associated with connecting flights and additional security procedures. Now more than ever, the option to fly non-stop, no matter how far away the final destination may be, is a valuable one, as it provides peace of mind and the convenience needed during times of uncertainty.

Flights connecting some of the farthest cities in the world are referred to as ultra-long-range flights. These flights are defined as being 16 hours or more.

There were almost 3,000 scheduled flights that fall under the ultra-long-range category last year, with the main connections between the following regions:

So how does one of the worlds leading aero-engine makers serve this small but high-value market? The airlines need an engine that operates efficiently on some of the longest flights in the world, but which also provides unrivalled economics across the rest of their network. The answer is the Airbus A350 XWB, powered by the most efficient large aero engine in service, the Trent XWB.

A short history of long-range flight

Rolls-Royce is synonymous with innovation that has created new possibilities. This is particularly evident from the way in which we have revolutionised how people connect throughout our history, continuing to do so today, and into the future. With people valuing their time more and more, it has become more important than ever to be able to connect with people and places as efficiently as possible. Rolls-Royce is perfectly placed to continue to support these needs. Thanks to our capabilities, expertise and technologies, we continue to lead the way in powering ultra-long-range travel efficiently and reliably.

The Trent XWB, which is the sixth generation of the Trent family, powers the longest commercial flight in the world. But we have a long history in powering ultra-long-range, record-breaking flights. Over the past century daring aviators have pushed the boundaries of engineering to win prizes, conquer new frontiers, and make the world smaller for passengers around the world.

HKTB Welcomes Announcement of In-principle Agreement to Establish Bilateral Hong Kong-Singapore Air Travel Bubble

Hong Kong and Singapore have reached an in-principle agreement to establish a bilateral Air Travel Bubble (ATB). This milestone arrangement will help revive cross-border air travel between the two aviation hubs in a safe and progressive way.

Hong Kong and Singapore enjoy strong trade, investment, finance, tourism and people-to-people ties. Both cities are major aviation hubs, and the international air route between the two cities was among the busiest in the Asia-Pacific region before the pandemic. Travel links between Hong Kong and Singapore are important for both cities.

In conjunction with this announcement and to inspire visitors to explore Hong Kong from all angles, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched 360 Hong Kong Moments – opening up the city virtually by way of wholesome and immersive content, designed to remind the world what a wonderful and all-encompassing destination Hong Kong is.

Singapore Airlines and SilkAir customers planning to transit through Singapore

Singapore Airlines and SilkAir customers planning to transit through Singapore

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has announced that travellers will gradually be allowed to transit through Singapore’s Changi Airport from 2 June 2020. Singapore Airlines will announce its plans for these transfer lanes when they have been finalised. Please note that until then, Singapore Airlines customers will not be able to transit through Changi Airport.

A frozen wonderland, snowfall and other delightful surprises await you at Singapore's Changi Airport this festive season

 A frozen wonderland, snowfall and other delightful surprises await you at Singapore's Changi Airport this festive season

Buckle up for a fun-filled winter adventure at Changi Airport this festive season, where visitors and passengers can immerse themselves in a wonderland inspired by Disney’s Frozen 2. For the first time, Jewel Changi Airport (Jewel), will be transformed into an enchanting wintry world where guests can walk through ‘snowfall’ at the Shiseido Forest Valley while enjoying an exclusive festive rendition of the HSBC Rain Vortex light and sound show, or even create their very own delightful handcrafted gifts for loved ones at a festive market and much more. From now to 5 January 2020, get ready to be mesmerised by a dizzying range of delightful experiences across multiple locations in Changi’s terminals and Jewel, set to delight the young and young-at-heart.

Unexpected Journeys with Singapore Airlines and Singapore Tourism Board

Singapore will take to the world stage with the launch of a light-hearted film series, entitled ‘Unexpected Journeys’ thanks to Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Singapore Tourism Board (STB). 

The series – with three episodes spanning 20 minutes each – aims to surprise global audiences with the impressive range and value of experiences that both brands have to offer. The three short films will be unveiled on the campaign’s dedicated YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/UnexpectedJourneys on 23 September 2019.

In ‘Unexpected Journeys’, Singaporean comedian, actor and host Rishi Budhrani travels to the hometowns of The League of Extraordinary Communities1 for an unconventional holiday. He is hosted by a family of six in Bland, New South Wales, Australia; a group of friends in Dull, Perthshire, Scotland; and a fellow comedian in Boring, Oregon, United States of America.

Traditional delights with a modern accent..........Raffles Singapore officially reopens

One of the great hotels of the world, the Raffles in Singapore has officially reopened, heralding an exciting new chapter in the iconic property’s rich history and heritage. The hotel originally opened in 1887 and is now the flagship property of the Accor hotel group, the world’s leading augmented hospitality group. Raffles Singapore is now welcoming guests and visitors, following the iconic hotel’s careful and sensitive three-phased restoration, which began in February 2017.

“There are few hotels in the world whose names have become virtually synonymous with the cities in which they are located – and none more so than the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The newly restored Raffles will provide an experience like no other,” said Christian Westbeld, General Manager, Raffles Singapore. “It is our wish and desire that our guests will continue to create treasured memories at the hotel, while rediscovering what makes it so special – the distinctive architecture, heritage and legendary service.”

Opening date set for T4 at Singapore's Changi Airport

photo to Changi Airport Group

The opening date for the new Terminal 4 at Singapore's Changi Airport has been set for 31st October according to the  Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan.

This new development is seen by many as a major milestone in the airport's development and will greatly enhance both passengers experience of the airport with increased technology and energy efficiencies.  

For the first time at the airport, there will be special a special facial recognition system which aims to capture passenger’s photo at different locations, centralized security screening, as well as start-to-end self-service options for check-in and other functions.

Announcing the opening date on Facebook the transport minister Khaw Boon Wan said that since the completion of construction last December, T4 has undergone extensive trials. So far the airport has completed over 100 trials, involving up to 2,500 airport staff along with 1,500 volunteers. Mr Khaw said “After endless rounds of testing and fine-tuning, we are ready to open T4. 

"Nine airlines – the AirAsia Group, Cathay Pacific Airways, Cebu Pacific Air, Korean Air, Spring Airlines and Vietnam Airlines  – will operate from the new terminal."

Codeshare for Avianca and Singapore Airlines Plus More Euro Expansion.

Avianca and Singapore Airlines  have signed a codeshare agreement which will allow both airlines to codeshare their flights from and to Barcelona and London Heathrow from next month.

The new agreement will offer Avianca’s passengers many more options to connect to the vibrant gateway to Southern Asia - Singapore.  And from there, passengers will be able to fly to dozens of destinations from the impressive Changi International Airport, with Singapore Airlines.

Avianca will include its ‘AV’ code on flights operated by Singapore Airlines on the London – Singapore – London and Barcelona – Singapore – Barcelona. Likewise, the Asian airline will add its ‘SQ’ code to flights operated by Avianca on the London – Bogota – London and Barcelona – Bogota

Singapore Puts On The Style For New Safety Briefing

As many airlines the world over are now realising that the pre-flight safety briefing video needs to have a bit of 'Omph' to grab our keep our attention these days. It's also has become an outlet for such creativity that airlines hope they will become the talk of the town - or at least go viral on social media.   

Singapore Airlines is no exception, they've definitely gone for 'style' over humour as befitting an airline of their stature and reputation. In this new video that's just a little short of six minutes viewers follow the Singapore Girl as she travels to familiar landmarks such as Boat Quay, The Intan Peranakan Home Museum, River Safari, Haji Lane, Henderson Waves, Capitol Theatre and Gardens by the Bay. At each location, she meets diverse characters engaged in different activities that creatively demonstrate the safety instructions.

Singapore Airlines Big Boeing Order

Singapore Airlines has ordered eight Boeing 777-300 Extended Range (ER) airplanes. The Singapore Airlines order is valued at $2.4 billion at Boeing current list prices. 


The order was first announced on 10 August 2011 but attributed on Boeing's Orders Deliveries website to an unidentified customer. In total, Singapore Airlines has ordered 85 Boeing 777s, 27 of which are 777-300ERs. 


 "This order is part of our ongoing fleet expansion and modernization program, which enables us to offer our latest cabin products to our customers," said Goh Choon Phong, chief executive officer for Singapore Airlines (SIA).


 "The additional 777-300ERs will also help us further strengthen the Singapore Airlines network, providing our customers even more travel options." SIA currently operates nearly every 777 model produced, including the 777-200, 777-200ER, 777-300 and 777-300ER.

Singapore Airlines all set to introduce low cost carrier -

 

Facing stiff competition from low fare air-carriers, Singapore Airlines is all set to introduce a low cost carrier soon, a top official said on Tueday.

 

Low Budget Carrier to be Launched by Singapore Airlines

 

Singapore Airlines has announced that it is to start up a budget long haul carrier. They are likely to be ready to start taking on passengers within the year. The airline will own most of the company but it will be managed independently bythem.

Singapore Airlines Airbus A380 with all-business class upper deck

 

Singapore Airlines' new A380s will sport business class seats from tip to tail

 

Singapore Airlines looks set to add a second tranche of Airbus A380s to its fleet next month with an extended business class cabin running the entire length of the upper deck.

The long-rumoured change appeared in global airline booking systems today, according to booking resource AirlineRoute, although Singapore Airlines has yet to officially announce the new layout.