Notable hardware and software upgrades: Singapore Airlines' 'Premium Economy' class now open for booking

▲ Singapore Airlines’ newly launched Premium Economy class. (Photo / Provided by Singapore Airlines)

Reported by Chen Rui Zhong / Compiled by staff

Singapore Airlines has announced the launch of its brand-new 'Premium Economy' class, with bookings now open. Starting August 9, 2015, passengers traveling on selected Singapore Airlines flights between Singapore and Sydney will be among the first to experience the new Premium Economy class.

The hardware and software features of Singapore Airlines' Premium Economy class are positioned between Business Class and Economy Class. The seat width ranges from 18.5 to 19.5 inches, with a recline of up to 8 inches. The seats also feature a 13.3-inch Full HD high-resolution screen (compared to 10.6 or 11.1 inches in Economy Class), along with active noise-canceling headphones. Additionally, each seat is fully upholstered in leather, including the seat surface, footrest, and leg rest. Seats also come equipped with power outlets, two USB ports, a personal reading light, a cocktail table, and personal storage space. The colors of the headrest covers, pillows, and blankets have been carefully selected and coordinated.

Passengers in Premium Economy can enjoy a standard in-flight menu featuring three main courses (compared to two in Economy Class), as well as the option to pre-order meals via the Celebrity Chef service. They also benefit from priority check-in and baggage handling (not available in Economy Class), a free checked baggage allowance of 35 kg per person (30 kg in Economy Class), and KrisFlyer loyalty program members flying in Premium Economy will earn an additional 10% mileage bonus.

Singapore Airlines stated that its cabin classes will henceforth be divided into First Class (Suites), Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class, allowing passengers to choose according to their needs. Premium Economy will be available on 19 A380 aircraft, 19 777-300ER aircraft, and the first batch of 20 A350 aircraft, with services gradually being introduced in the second half of 2015.