Does Singapore Airlines Business Class live up to its reputation?

The cabin features 42 bespoke Jamco designed seats in a 1-2-1 layout, offering direct aisle access for every passenger. Window seats are ideal for solo travellers, while the middle pair suits couples where by a privacy screen can be pulled back. The seat offers a 60-inch pitch, 28-inch width, and a 78-inch fully flat bed, with the generous width being a standout advantage compared with other A350 operators. 

Seat storage includes a footwell cubby, laptop compartment, a small item compartment plus mirror beside the IFE screen, and a table space, inclusive of a deep stowage area housing the headphones. Power options include two USB-A ports and a universal outlet. 

The 18-inch HD IFE screen, however, is not touch enabled, requiring use of the handheld remote, an unusual choice for a premium cabin in 2025. The tray table provides a large work and dining surface, though mobility is limited when deployed. The table can be raised and lowered which is not usually seen on business class tables.  

The seat reclines electronically, but converting it to a lie-flat bed requires manual adjustment, which somewhat diminishes the premium feel. A colleague on a regional 787 flight, however, had seats that transformed into lie-flat beds at the touch of a button. What does make this seat feel so premium though is the mattress topper that accompanies the seat and the extra large pillow for sleeping.

The absence of individual air vents is notable, though this is becoming increasingly common in Business Class. Lighting options are strong, including overhead reading lights and adjustable seat lighting, which helps minimise disturbance to other passengers.

Cabin presentation was strong on both flights. Despite the aircraft being eight years old (outbound), seats were in full working order with only light wear typical of age. Branding on bulkhead walls is minimal, and a slightly stronger use of Singapore Airlines’ identity here could enhance cabin ambience. 

As expected, Singapore Airlines’ customer service went above and beyond. The crew gave off genuinely warm vibes, clearly enjoyed their work, and offered consistently friendly service with a smile. Whether in the galley or at your seat, they were always happy to help or have a chat, and nothing ever felt like too much trouble. My colleague travelling on a regional service also mentioned it was among the best customer service she had encountered. Singapore Airlines really are the world leaders in this area.

As part of Singapore Airlines’ excellent catering offering, passengers can use the Book the Cook service via Manage Booking. This allows travellers to choose from a wide selection of meals up to 48 hours before departure. Otherwise, passengers can simply select from the menu available at their seat once onboard. All dining is dine-on-demand, giving passengers the flexibility to eat, work, or rest whenever it suits them.

With the first beverage service, the crew offered a small plate of Singapore Airlines’ signature satay skewers. Although neatly presented, the flavour didn’t quite meet expectations: the skewers were cold, and the sauce lacked its usual rich, nutty depth, with only chilli and sweetness coming through. They were also not served on the inbound flight which may have been due to the late night departure time. That said, a colleague on a separate medium-haul sector found the satay, which was served hot, to be a standout on both her sectors highlighting just how varied the experience can be.

The Yellowfin tuna appetiser on the outbound flight was beautifully presented and just as impressive in flavour. Bread service was excellent, with more than five warm options offered from a linen-lined basket. On the inbound flight, the prawn salad appetiser was perfectly acceptable, though it didn’t deliver the same wow factor as the standout tuna dish.

The short rib Book the Cook main course was plated directly from a galley trolley on the outbound sector, which reduced the sense of personalisation typically expected in Business Class. Even so, the flavours were strong and the textures well executed, with only the mac and cheese side needing a richer cheese profile. On the inbound flight, a pork dumpling noodle dish was selected through Book the Cook; while the presentation was modest, the taste was excellent.

Desserts were presented on a tray, each covered with a plastic lid. While the coverings help with visual selection, they slightly detract from the premium feel, especially compared to competitors’ refined dessert trolleys. The dark chocolate crémeux, however, was superb—easily among the best Business Class desserts available. On the inbound flight, desserts were not presented by crew, but the chocolate parfait I chose is one I would highly recommend.

Both flights featured a pre-landing breakfast service. Singaporean beef noodles were served on the outbound sector, and nasi lemak on the inbound. Breakfast began with a choice of fresh fruit or muesli, although crew did not proactively ask passengers for their preference. All dishes were well presented and maintained the high quality consistent with the broader meal service.

Across both sectors, a snack menu was available on demand throughout the flight, including crisps, chocolates, noodle soups, sandwiches, nuts, and more. The pork sandwich and coronation chicken sandwich were sampled, both demonstrating strong flavour, freshness, and overall high quality. 

A comprehensive drinks list includes champagne, wines, cocktails (including an excellent Singapore Sling or the stronger Kris Sling), mocktails, spirits, barista coffees, dairy drinks, and wellness teas. 

Overall the dining experience was excellent.

Singapore Airlines does not place a full amenity kit at each seat, a departure from industry norms. Kits are available on request, but not advertised, and presented in a recycled black pouch containing moisturiser, face mist, and lip balm. Other items such as eye masks, dental kits, and socks are available exclusively in the lavatories as part of the airline’s sustainability model. 

Each seat is equipped with a large duvet and pillow, which is easily among the most luxurious thsi author has experienced.

The A350 long-haul configuration features three lavatories for the 42-seat cabin (a ratio of 14 passengers per lavatory). They are compact but well presented, consistently spotless, and equipped with small premium touches such as flowers. Crew are diligent in refreshing them after each use.

Looking ahead, Singapore Airlines is set to significantly elevate its long-haul experience. The airline has announced a S$1.1 billion investment to install new cabin products across 41 Airbus A350-900 long-haul and Ultra Long Range (ULR) aircraft, including a brand-new First Class cabin for the ULR fleet. The next-generation Business Class seat, which will debut on both the A350 retrofit programme and the future Boeing B777-9, promises enhanced privacy, comfort, and ergonomics, directly addressing several limitations of the current product. Premium Economy and Economy will also receive refreshed cabins, ensuring a fully updated experience across all classes.

A new, more personalised version of the KrisWorld IFE system will accompany these seats, featuring upgraded screens in First and Business Class and expanded lifestyle options throughout the cabin.

This major retrofit programme reaffirms Singapore Airlines’ commitment to maintaining its position as one of the world’s leading premium carriers. With the first retrofitted A350 entering service in 2026 and the programme completing by 2030, the airline is preparing to redefine long-haul travel once again, combining next-generation hardware with the signature service its cabin crew are renowned for.

In summary, Singapore Airlines Business Class continues to deliver a consistently premium experience, combining excellent service, generous seat width, high-quality catering, and strong cabin presentation. While certain features, such as the non-touch IFE screen, Manual bed conversion, and absence of a standard amenity kit slightly diminish the highest-end feel, the overall offering remains competitive, luxurious and refined.

Does it live up to its reputation? The answer is simple: yes. Without a doubt, it remains one of the best Business Class products in the skies.