Well, when I was working in warehouses and things before uni, if you'd have told me I'd have been galavanting around the atmosphere flying first class, I'd have called you a fruit loop and have awaited the van with the padded walls to have appeared.
However, for reasons that will become known, I did just that today!
The context: I'm quite brand loyal, VERY when it comes to some brands, including Virgin! Now, I get the chance to travel with work, and try to fly with Virgin whenever I can so I can keep my Gold status with their frequent flyer scheme. This brings perks, such as access to their lounges (The one at heathrow has to be seen to be believed!) and other benefits, such as a free ticket for a friend every year when you fly with them. Their frequent flyer scheme is built around tier points, and sadly, I wasn't due to accrue enough this year. However, flying Singapore Airlines, and flying 1st class would have earned me a third of the points needed. This review is about that flight....
History: Malay airlines I can't remember the exact name) was formed in the 40's serving both Malaysia and Singapore. In the 1950's it split into the now Singapore Airlines and Malaysian Airlines. Singapore airlines fly across the world, and, amongst other first, fly the longest route I believe it's between Japan and New York) and will also take delivery of the first Airbus A380. They are based, funnily enough, from Singapore and serve SE Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. Pretty extensive, it has to be said.
The cost: Now, this is the interesting part. Go onto expedia (or you're fave travel site) and pick a flight between singapore and london, travelling first class. Yes, the price that comes up is truly staggering! However, there is extreme competition between Singapore airlines and Malaysian airlines between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. The cost for this route? A mere £180! To get the night train between the two cities, with a private cabin shared between two is £100. The small coach is around £20 to put it all into context.
Checking In: Well, what can I say. When you fly 1st Class with Singapore Airlines, you get your own check in area, which is quite, well attended and with seats! The service was fantastic and made a mockery of anything you've experienced in the UK. They even managed to change my return flight for me with no fuss. Within a couple of minutes, I was walking through immigration and into the main terminal at Changi Airport.
The Lounge: Well, here's where it went downhill a bit. I've been many times in the Virgin Clubhouse at Heathrow and it never fails to leave me in amazement. Imagine my surprise when walking in to the 1st Class Lounge at Changi then. It looked like every other lounge in the world, with a special nod to North American carriers. The selection of food was good, as was the drinks, but I couldn't connect to the free Wi-Fi and the decor was a bit, well, brown!
However, my flight time soon came up, and I pre boarded, as is the case with 1st class passengers. We walked down a separate air bridge to the front of the plane, which avoided the need for of all economy to come waltzing through!
On Board: I was greeted and shown my seat by what seemed to be several people! I was soon seat in a large seat, and my feet certainly couldn't touch the bulkhead infront of me! I had enough hip room also. Despite requesting a window seat, I got an aisle seat with no one sat next to me! Strange..... Anyway, I was offered a glass of orange juice, and a selection of local papers, including the FT weekend.
The Cabin: Looking around the Boeing 777, there were around 5 rows of seats I couldn't see into economy). It was a 2 - 3 - 2 configuration and was nearly full. The seat was comfortable without having to recline it. The cabin had an airey feel about it and looked reasonably new. The aisles were quite wide and the amount of leg room had to be over 50 inches (compare that to the 30" you get in economy). There was no seat back entertainment.... The screen appeared from within the arm of the seat, along with the table. However, due to the duration of the flight, I wouldn't need it.
The flight: Within a few minutes, we were taxing and airbourne. The seat belt sign turned off within minutes and almost immediatley the cabin crew were push a trolley offering food and tea or coffee. I was offered a panini or salmon salad. I chose the Salmon, which appeared to be the right choice. My plate contained this beautiful piece of Salmon with a herb and chilli crust, some salad garnish and a nice sauce. I was also offered water. The Salmon was delicious! However, it was soon gone, and, almost as quick, the tray was removed. What a nice touch was the food being served on a proper plate, along with steel knifes and forks, etc! The seat belt sign turned on, and just 35 minutes after taking off, we landed!
We were soon at the gate, and the staff were again very polite and genuine, which you don't tend to get in Europe (with the exception of Virgin!)
Well, Singapore Airlines certainly met and exceeded my expectations, and I'd jump at the chance of flying with them again.
More details
Class flown most frequently
First Class
How often do you travel with this airline
Rarely
Where did you book
Directly with this airline
Safety
Very safe
How well does it cater for disabled people
OK
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