Singapore Airlines' (SIA) regional wing, SilkAir, is to undergo a significant investment programme to upgrade its cabin products as part of a multi-year initiative that will ultimately see it merged into SIA.

The programme will comprise investment of more than $100 million to upgrade the wholly owned subsidiary's cabins with new lie-flat seats in Business Class, and the installation of seat-back in-flight entertainment systems in both Business Class and Economy Class. This will ensure closer product and service consistency across the SIA Group's full-service network.

Aircraft cabin upgrades are expected to start in 2020 due to lead times required by seat suppliers, including to complete certification processes. The merger will take place only after a sufficient number of aircraft have been fitted with the new cabin products. Specific details will be announced progressively as the programme develops and timelines are finalised.

Consistent with ongoing efforts to optimise the SIA Group's network, there will also be transfers of routes and aircraft between the different airlines in the portfolio.

“Singapore Airlines is one year into our three-year Transformation Programme and today's announcement is a significant development to provide more growth opportunities and prepare the Group for an even stronger future,” said SIA CEO, Mr Goh Choon Phong.

“Importantly, it will be positive for our customers. It is another example of the major investment we are making to ensure that our products and services continue to lead the industry across short-, medium- and long-haul routes.”

SilkAir is the regional wing of Singapore Airlines, operating a fleet of 11 Airbus A320-family aircraft and 22 Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft. It is currently transitioning to an all-737 fleet, and serves 49 destinations in 16 countries.

It launched in 1989 as Tradewinds the Airline, initially focusing on holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. Renamed SilkAir in 1992, it expanded progressively across Asia in subsequent years as it evolved from a holiday resort airline to a full-fledged, full-service regional carrier.

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For further information, please contact:

Singapore Airlines Public Affairs Department

Tel: (65) 6541-5880 (office hours)

Tel: (65) 9753-2126 (after office hours)

Public_Affairs@singaporeair.com.sg

Karl Schubert

Public Relations Manager Singapore Airlines 

Tel: (02) 9350 0293

Mob: 0407 708 470

Karl_Schubert@singaporeair.com.sg

Gillian O'Young
Liquid Ideas for Singapore Airlines
Tel: (02) 9667 4211
SingaporeAirlines@liquidideas.com.au

About Singapore Airlines 

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has proudly serviced Australia since 1967, currently operating 137 weekly flights from six Australian cities. Alongside its regional wing, SilkAir, and low-cost carrier Scoot, SIA provides access to a global network of 134 destinations in 37 countries and territories through the world-famous Changi Airport hub.

SIA recently launched its newest range of industry-leading cabin products to be rolled out across its A380 fleet, representing an US$850 million investment. The revamped products offer a new level of luxury and privacy for Suites and Business Class passengers, as well as enhanced Premium Economy and Economy products providing customers with increased comfort. Travellers can experience the new products from Sydney to Singapore, and on select flights from Singapore to London and Hong Kong.

SIA also recently took delivery of the world's first Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, and unveiled brand-new regional Business Class products to be fitted along with its newest Economy Class product on an initial 20 of the aircraft to enter the Airline's fleet, representing an US$350 million investment. The Boeing 787-10 will first operate to Osaka and Perth.

For full details on SIA group's current services from Australia to Singapore, please see below: