The Airbus A380 problems have taken a new turn with Singapore Airlines introducing its new product improvements for the existing aircraft fleet. The planned high profile date was meant to emphasise the Airbus Super Jumbo with its introduction imminent, due in December. That now will not happen until the third quarter of next year.
The new first class seat, which is upholstered in leather, at 35" in width, is said to be the most spacious premium class product to be introduced by a commercial airline. Further added features include a sleek 23" LCD screen with a business panel equipped with USB ports and in-seat power supply, as well as new noise reduction headsets. Other features include a private vanity area completed by furnishings and amenities designed by fashion house Givenchy.
Business class gets a seat that the airline says is the widest in its "J" class, 30" width and fully flat. Other enhanced features include a 15.4" LCD monitor, exclusively designed bedding and dining-ware by Givenchy, enlarged dining table adjustable for height as well as a useful trolley bag stowage area under the seat.
Economy class too gets an upgrade using new seats providing even more personal space and legroom. A 10.6" monitor is provided.
The new set of cabin configurations and upgrades will roll out over the coming months throughout the fleet. The product will debut on the new B777-300 ER services this December, between Singapore and Paris and subsequently Zurich. The Airbus A380 aircraft will also feature variations of some of these products when it enters service.
A three-class operator on most long haul services (but not on Singapore - New York for example), all passengers will benefit with the introduction of the KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system (IFE). This so-called next generation IFE offers over 1,000 on-demand options. Also available is a comprehensive suite of office tools that includes spreadsheet, presentation and word processing on each personal KrisWorld system. USB ports are also available at each seat to allow customers to access the enhanced functionalities of the new entertainment system; other smart features include the installation of the handset on the seatback for easier reach, a non-intrusive reading light installed underneath the screen and in-seat power supply.