Overview & First Impressions
Embarking on one of the world's longest flights, a 16-hour journey from San Francisco (SFO) to Singapore (SIN) aboard Singapore Airlines' A350-900 ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft, offered an extensive opportunity to evaluate their Premium Economy product. This specific ULR variant is unique, featuring only Business and Premium Economy cabins, eliminating First and Economy classes. This configuration impacts the boarding process, as Premium Economy passengers, while typically enjoying priority, board after Business Class, making the 'priority' aspect less pronounced when there are no economy passengers to bypass.
Pre-flight, Premium Economy tickets do not include lounge access, a standard practice across most airlines. However, for those with Star Gold status, access to partner lounges, such as the United Club Lounge at SFO, is available. The lounge experience itself, while not part of the Singapore Airlines Premium Economy offering, provided a comfortable start to the journey, with the added bonus of watching our A350-900 ULR pull up to the gate, an impressive sight for any aviation enthusiast.
Upon boarding, the Premium Economy cabin immediately presented a 2-4-2 configuration, a comfortable standard for this class. A notable feature on this ULR aircraft, particularly appealing to solo travelers, are the six single window seats located at the rear of the cabin. These offer enhanced privacy and a personal storage bin, though they come with an additional charge of $168 USD. For couples or those traveling with a companion, the two-seater configurations, such as our chosen seats 38K and H, offer a more conventional yet spacious arrangement. The cabin’s initial impression was one of modern comfort, with sleek leather seats setting a promising tone for the ultra-long-haul flight ahead.
Seat, Cabin & IFE
The Premium Economy seat on Singapore Airlines' A350-900 ULR offers a thoughtful balance of comfort and functionality for extended journeys. Upholstered in leather, each seat boasts a generous 38-inch row pitch and a comfortable 19-inch width, dimensions consistent with Singapore Airlines' standard A350 Premium Economy. This provides ample personal space, crucial for a 16-hour flight. Overhead, a personal reading light is available, and connectivity is well-addressed with a three-prong headphone jack and two USB-A ports – one integrated into the seat and another conveniently located next to the In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) screen.
Storage solutions include practical seat-back pockets, while a double-wide armrest and a small cocktail ledge between seats enhance convenience for drinks and small items. Below the seat, a universal power port ensures devices remain charged throughout the flight. A calf rest that raises up and a foot pedal are provided, allowing passengers to adjust their leg support, though personal preference for the foot pedal may vary. Legroom under the seat in front is sufficient for smaller bags or for stretching out. The seat recline of 8 inches is substantial enough to offer a noticeable difference in comfort, allowing for decent rest during the long flight, without overly impinging on the space of the passenger behind.
For personal hygiene, three washrooms are shared among 94 Premium Economy passengers. These are equipped with basic amenities such as hand soap, lotion, dental kits, and extra sick bags, along with a baby change table and tissues. The inclusion of a foot pedal for the garbage bin is a small but appreciated detail for cleanliness. The IFE system is a highlight, featuring a 13.3-inch touchscreen display, complemented by a remote for those who prefer not to touch the screen. The screen can be adjusted vertically for optimal viewing, especially when the seat in front is reclined. Content-wise, over 1,900 hours of movies, TV shows, music, and games are available, ensuring diverse entertainment options. Furthermore, complimentary Wi-Fi is provided for KrisFlyer members, making it possible to stay connected throughout the journey. Noise-canceling headphones, complete with sanitary covers, are issued, performing quite effectively. In terms of bedding, a large, fluffy pillow and a thin, fleece-like blanket are provided, proving adequate for the cabin temperature. The amenity kit, a recent upgrade, is available upon request for flights over 7 hours. It's presented in a kraft paper bag from US-based brand Out of the Woods and contains thin slippers, an eye mask, and lip balm, with earplugs available separately upon request.
Food, Drinks & Service
The culinary experience in Singapore Airlines Premium Economy on this ultra-long-haul flight demonstrated a clear effort to elevate the offering, particularly with the introduction of several new upgrades. Shortly after takeoff, the crew initiated drink service, featuring a non-vintage Charles de Cazanove Champagne, a welcome premium touch. However, a minor drawback was that all beverages, including the champagne, were served in plastic cups, somewhat detracting from the premium feel. Hot towels were also distributed, a thoughtful gesture for hand hygiene.
Dinner service commenced approximately an hour into the flight. Passengers now benefit from printed menus, a significant improvement from previous offerings. Further enhancing the dining experience is the expanded menu available through Singapore Airlines' 'Book the Cook' service, allowing for pre-ordering of meals. The dinner itself was substantial, beginning with a larger seasonal appetizer – a flavorful farro and vegetable salad accompanied by smoked duck breast and balsamic glaze. This was served alongside a choice of bread, a selection of cheese and crackers, and a square of chocolate.
For the main course, the butter chicken and rice was reported as flavorful and delicious, while the slow-roasted pork shoulder with tofu and vegetables was noted for its excellent taste and tenderness. Dessert concluded the meal with a delicious chocolate fudge brownie served with vanilla sauce. A notable upgrade was the dishware, described by Singapore Airlines as "upgraded contemporary stonework glazed porcelain," which indeed contributed to a more refined presentation. Beyond scheduled meals, a basket of snacks, including sandwiches and fruit, was available in the galley throughout the flight, providing options for mid-flight cravings. The pre-arrival meal, served about an hour and a half before landing, was breakfast. The congee with shredded chicken, ginger, and vegetables was a comforting and enjoyable choice, though the char siew egg noodles were deemed only "just okay." Both breakfast meals were accompanied by a side of fresh fruit, a croissant, and strawberry yogurt. The overall service was attentive, ensuring meals and drinks were delivered efficiently, contributing positively to the long flight experience.
