Singapore Airlines 251

February, 2023

Hello, fellow aviation enthusiasts! Today, I'll be reviewing a flight with one of the world's best airlines - Singapore Airlines. I'll be flying in their business class from Singapore Changi Airport to Darwin. So, buckle up, sit back, and let's begin our journey.

Having just arrived from LAX on one of the top 10 longest flights in the world, I needed somewhere to relax, get food, and maybe even a shower. Checking out my boarding pass, I noticed that business class passengers had access to the exclusive SilverKris lounge, which features comfortable seating, complimentary food, drinks, and a range of amenities to make your pre-flight experience as comfortable as possible. Thus, today’s journey begins with the obligatory lounge visit at the SilverKris lounge. Dining options in the lounge include a long self-service buffet spread on one side and an open-concept light food and refreshments section on the opposite end. After having a lite breakfast, I opted for a shower to freshen up; these are way nicer than my bathroom at home.

Feeling a bit rejuvenated and ready for some more adventure, it was time to check out some other parts of this airport. Need a pre-flight snack or drink? There’s a 7-Eleven in each terminal. If shopping is your thing, or you want to purchase big-ticket items without taxes, this airport likely has a store for you. From Tiffany & Co. to Bulgari, an Apple Store to Cosmetic boutiques, it would be easy to spend a day here. If shopping isn’t your cup of tea, there’s also a movie theater, an arcade, a kid-friendly indoor playground, butterfly and cactus gardens. Heck, you can even plan for weddings at this airport! Enough exploring. Very upset I didn’t get to the Jewel or really many other experiences at the airport, but that means I need to come back for a longer layover.

I was not familiar with the security and gating at Changi airport, so I’m going to mention this for others transiting through Singapore. Unlike in the United States, gates in Changi airport are cordoned off from the main halls connecting terminals. In my case, gates A16-A20 were located after a secondary security checkpoint. Yes, that does mean another bag scan, but in not nearly as invasive as the primary security screen. There is usually plenty of time to spare between arriving at my assigned gate and when my boarding zone is called, and today was no different. Arriving early is usually a good thing, but I suppose there is such a thing as too early. If you end up making it to the gate area and are too early, you will need to wait until your flight appears on the large screen adjacent to the entrance.

Almost exactly 30 minutes prior to the scheduled boarding time, we were allowed through that secondary screen where I was able to catch a glimpse of today’s 737max8. The life of 9V-MBF began in 2019 under SilkAir, a now defunct subsidiary of Singapore Airlines. Our flight will last almost four and a half hours and cover 3,338 km flying south over the Java and Timor Sea on our way into Runway 29 at Darwin.

I was lucky enough to be first to board the plane today. Nearing the plane, the familiar Flora Batik brought back the pleasant memories of my long haul flight from LAX. After crossing the threshold and being greeted by four flight attendants, I didn’t need to walk far to reach my seat, 11A. First impressions of Singapore Airlines business class on a narrow body are, wow. Three, some may say four windows, a seat capable of lie-flat, pillow and blanket waiting, and a bright modern cabin. One benefit of the bulkhead seat is the shelf directly in front of the seats, although it is not meant for storing items.

After settling in, I was offered a welcome drink and chose orange juice. It was quite overcast, which from what I’ve heard is not uncommon in Singapore. We were graced by the Queen just before landing; this one wearing the Singapore Airlines Cargo livery. One interesting site popped into view after we began taxiing to the active runway. Several aircraft are lined up on a taxiway that appear to be mid-canibalized. At least part of those planes will continue in the air. After the Etihad Dreamliner landed, we were next up for departure.

Once off the ground, we were subject to a few bouts of mild turbulence. Did you know Singapore has one of the highest lighting densities worldwide? Shortly after popping out of the dense cloud layers, it was time for the meal service. Whether flying in premium economy, business, first, or suites, Singapore Airlines offers a couple of different ways to ensure you receive the meal you want.

Within 15 days of departing, Log on to Manage your Booking via SingaporeAirlines.com and select your meal (within 15 days of departure)
View the inflight menu online (within eight days before departure)
Book the Cook (within 48 hours before departure), which offers a more extensive menu.

I opted for Book the Cook and selected baked egg soufflés with sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a mushroom cream sauce. My seat partner chose a classic French dish, Lobster Thermidor, which is cooked in a rich cream sauce, enhanced with Cognac and Dijon mustard.

Before I knew it, we were already approaching our destination. I had been looking forward to visiting Australia my entire life, so checking out the in-flight entertainment wasn’t exactly a priority as my eyes were glued outside the window waiting to catch my first glimpse of the land down under. Whether for comfort or just background noise, I did have live TV on, which streamed without any delays with great quality. The spaciousness of this seat is superb; I did not try the lie flat feature, but judging by the amount of leg room I had while in an upright seated position, I don’t think I would struggle finding a comfortable sleeping position.

From my perspective, this flight and product can be summarized in a single word; prime. From the initial greeting after entering the cabin, to the presentation of food, cleanliness and modernness of cabin, attentive FAs, and comfortableness, I’d happily take this flight again.

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