Singapore Airlines is consistently ranked among the best airlines in the world, admired for its outstanding service, comfort, and innovative inflight offerings. Passengers know the airline for its iconic Suites, spacious Business Class, and well-appointed Economy Class cabins. But many travelers wonder whether Singapore Airlines offers a middle option between Economy and Business Class. The answer is yes: Singapore Airlines does have Premium Economy seating, designed to provide extra comfort, space, and exclusive perks for passengers who want more than standard Economy but at a lower cost than Business Class.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Premium Economy on Singapore Airlines. From seat design and cabin features to inflight dining, entertainment, booking tips, and value for money, this guide covers every detail to help you decide whether Premium Economy is right for your next journey.
Introduction to Premium Economy
Premium Economy is a relatively modern cabin class introduced by many international airlines to cater to passengers seeking a balance between affordability and comfort. It is especially popular on long-haul flights where extra space, better dining, and priority services can make a significant difference.
Singapore Airlines launched its Premium Economy cabin in 2015, positioning it as a thoughtful upgrade from Economy rather than a smaller version of Business Class. The cabin was designed after extensive passenger feedback, focusing on the things travelers value most: space, comfort, dining, and personalized service.
Where Premium Economy Is Available
Premium Economy is not offered on all Singapore Airlines flights. It is available on most long-haul routes, particularly those operated by the Airbus A380, Airbus A350, and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. Popular destinations with Premium Economy cabins include flights to the United States, Europe, and Australia, as well as select regional routes with high demand.
Before booking, passengers should check whether their specific flight offers Premium Economy, as availability depends on aircraft type and route.
Cabin Layout and Design
Singapore Airlines designed its Premium Economy cabin to create a sense of exclusivity while still being accessible to many passengers.
- Cabin Size: The Premium Economy section is smaller and more intimate than the main Economy cabin, typically with around 24 to 28 seats depending on the aircraft type.
- Seat Configuration: Most Premium Economy cabins follow a 2-4-2 seating arrangement, offering more window and aisle seats compared to the tighter 3-3-3 or 3-4-3 layouts of Economy.
- Ambiance: The cabin design incorporates warm lighting, soothing colors, and a quieter environment than standard Economy, giving passengers a more relaxed feel.
This thoughtful design creates a balance between comfort and efficiency, allowing passengers to enjoy an upgraded experience without stepping into the premium pricing of Business Class.
Premium Economy Seat Features
The seat is the star of Premium Economy, and Singapore Airlines has invested heavily to make it one of the best in the skies.
- Seat Dimensions
- Width: Approximately 19.5 to 20 inches, wider than Economy Class seats.
- Pitch (legroom): Around 38 inches, compared to the standard 32 inches in Economy.
- Recline: Up to 8 inches, offering more comfort for rest.
- Ergonomic Design
- Adjustable footrest and calf rest for additional leg support.
- Wide armrests with a personal space feel.
- Winged headrest that adjusts to multiple positions for neck support.
- Convenience Features
- Large tray table suitable for meals, laptops, or tablets.
- Individual reading light for minimal disturbance to neighbors.
- Additional storage spaces for small items such as phones or glasses.
- Personal power outlet and USB charging port at every seat.
The seat itself provides the perfect balance of relaxation and functionality, ideal for long flights where comfort makes a big difference.
Dining Experience in Premium Economy
One of the highlights of Premium Economy on Singapore Airlines is the elevated dining experience. While Business Class offers the luxurious Book the Cook program with an extensive menu, Premium Economy passengers also enjoy a refined version of this privilege.
- Exclusive Premium Economy Menu
Meals in Premium Economy are distinct from standard Economy offerings. Passengers enjoy upgraded entrées, better presentation, and a greater selection of beverages, including wines and champagne.
- Book the Cook Service
Premium Economy passengers can pre-order meals from a curated selection of dishes through the airline’s Book the Cook service, available on selected flights. Options may include international favorites, Asian delicacies, and healthy choices, all prepared with premium ingredients.
- Complimentary Beverages
A range of soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages, including selected wines and champagne, is available to Premium Economy passengers.
The focus on quality dining elevates the inflight experience and adds significant value compared to standard Economy.
Inflight Entertainment in Premium Economy
Entertainment plays a vital role in long-haul travel, and Singapore Airlines ensures that Premium Economy passengers are well cared for in this area.
- Personal Screens: Each seat features a 13.3-inch HD touchscreen monitor, significantly larger than Economy Class screens.
- KrisWorld Entertainment System: Access to over a thousand options including movies, TV shows, music, and games.
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Premium Economy passengers receive noise-canceling headphones for a superior audio experience.
- Connectivity: Many aircraft offer Wi-Fi access for an additional fee, allowing passengers to stay connected during the flight.
The combination of a larger screen, premium headphones, and extensive entertainment options ensures a comfortable journey with plenty of distraction from long hours in the air.
Amenities and Comfort
Singapore Airlines enhances the Premium Economy experience with thoughtful amenities.
- Amenity Kit: On long-haul flights, passengers may receive amenity kits including items like eye shades, socks, and dental kits.
- Blankets and Pillows: Larger and more comfortable than Economy versions.
- Priority Service: Premium Economy passengers usually enjoy priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling.
These additional perks make traveling smoother and less stressful, especially on long flights.
Service in Premium Economy
Service is a hallmark of Singapore Airlines, and Premium Economy passengers benefit from attentive care. The cabin crew provides personalized service to the smaller cabin, ensuring quicker response times and a more intimate feel. While not as elaborate as Business Class service, it is noticeably more attentive than in Economy.
Baggage Allowance
Another important feature of Premium Economy is the enhanced baggage allowance.
- Checked Baggage: Typically 35 kilograms or two pieces depending on the route.
- Carry-On Baggage: One piece weighing up to 7 kilograms, plus a personal item.
This allowance is more generous than Economy Class, giving travelers flexibility for long trips or shopping abroad.
Price Difference: Is Premium Economy Worth It?
The cost of Premium Economy falls between Economy and Business Class. Prices vary by route, season, and booking time, but generally:
- Economy vs Premium Economy: Premium Economy fares are around 50 to 80 percent higher than Economy.
- Premium Economy vs Business: Business Class fares can be more than double Premium Economy prices.
Whether Premium Economy is worth the upgrade depends on your travel needs:
- Yes, it’s worth it if:
- You are flying long-haul and need more comfort.
- You want better dining and inflight service without Business Class costs.
- You value priority check-in and boarding.
- Maybe not necessary if:
- You are on a short regional flight.
- You sleep easily and do not require additional space.
For many travelers, Premium Economy offers the perfect compromise between comfort and affordability.
Comparisons with Other Cabins
- Premium Economy vs Economy
- More legroom and seat width.
- Better dining and beverage options.
- Larger entertainment screens and noise-canceling headphones.
- Priority check-in and baggage allowance.
- Premium Economy vs Business Class
- Premium Economy lacks lie-flat seats and privacy pods.
- Dining and wine selections are less extensive than Business Class.
- Business Class offers lounges, priority immigration (at some airports), and luxury amenities.
Premium Economy bridges the gap, providing tangible upgrades over Economy while being much more affordable than Business.
Booking Premium Economy
Booking Premium Economy is straightforward. You can select this cabin class directly when searching for flights on the Singapore Airlines website or app. If you booked an Economy ticket, you may also have the option to upgrade to Premium Economy using miles through the KrisFlyer loyalty program or by paying a fare difference.
Promotions and discounts are sometimes offered, especially during off-peak travel periods, so it is worth keeping an eye out for deals.
Who Should Choose Premium Economy?
Premium Economy is ideal for:
- Business travelers whose companies do not cover Business Class fares.
- Leisure travelers who want more comfort on long-haul flights.
- Families looking for extra space and child-friendly meal options.
- Elderly passengers who need additional legroom and support.
It is less suited for travelers on short flights or those who prefer to save as much as possible.
The Future of Premium Economy on Singapore Airlines
As passenger demand grows for cabins that balance comfort with affordability, Premium Economy is becoming more popular. Singapore Airlines continues to refine its offerings, with potential future upgrades including enhanced connectivity, expanded Book the Cook menus, and even more ergonomic seat designs.
The airline’s investment in Premium Economy reflects its understanding of modern travelers’ evolving needs.
Conclusion
Yes, Singapore Airlines does have Premium Economy seating, and it is an excellent option for travelers who want an upgraded experience without the full cost of Business Class. With wider seats, extra legroom, enhanced dining, larger entertainment screens, noise-canceling headphones, and priority services, Premium Economy creates a comfortable and enjoyable journey, especially on long-haul flights.
While it cannot match the luxury of Business or Suites, it is a significant step above standard Economy and offers real value for those seeking a balance between comfort and price.
By offering Premium Economy, Singapore Airlines demonstrates its commitment to innovation and passenger satisfaction, ensuring that every traveler, regardless of budget, can enjoy a world-class flying experience tailored to their needs.
