Singapore Airlines’ first Airbus A350-900 has arrived in Singapore.
The aircraft’s arrival was celebrated in grandeur with a spectacular water cannon salute and a ceremony graced by Singapore’s Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Transport, Mr Khaw Boon Wan, as well as distinguished guests who had the opportunity to tour the new aircraft.
Singapore Airlines has 67 A350s on firm order, the first of which will be deployed on long-haul services to Amsterdam from May, and Dusseldorf from July.
Before the launch of the Amsterdam flights, the A350 will be deployed to destinations in Asia on a temporary basis, for crew training purposes.
With advanced technology the A350 will offer passengers a better passenger experience with features such as higher ceilings, larger windows, an extra wide body and lighting designed to reduce jetlag.
The A350 will form a key part of SIA’s fleet, enabling SIA to introduce new destinations, expanding its network and improving connectivity through the Singapore hub.
The initial batch of A350-900s for long-haul flights will seat 253 passengers in three classes, with 42 Business Class, 24 Premium Economy Class and 187 Economy Class seats.
Singapore Airlines CEO, Mr Goh Choon Phong:
“The A350 is a key element in our overall capacity growth and fleet renewal strategy. Its improved operating efficiency offers us the opportunity to open up even more new routes, providing more travel options to our customers.
“With its arrival, Singapore Airlines is staying true to our longstanding commitment to maintain a young and modern fleet of aircraft. The A350 will ultimately enable us to help further enhance the three main pillars of the Singapore Airlines brand promise: service excellence, product leadership and network connectivity.”
N.B. Image credit: singaporeair.com
