Singapore Airlines launches longer long-haul service
Singapore Airlines has today launched the world's longest non-stop commercial flight when an Airbus A340-500 left for Los Angeles on an historic voyage.
Flight SQ20, with 140 passengers aboard, is to take 16 hours to Los Angeles, and the return flight will take 18 and a half hours, saving up to two hours in flying time each way from the previous one-stop route.
SIA officials, pleased with the 75% passenger load for the maiden voyage, have announced the launch of a second non-stop service, between Singapore and New York, has been brought forward from August to June.
SIA chief executive Chew Choon Seng said that if the two services are successful, the carrier will consider expanding its fleet of five long-range Airbus aircraft.
The Singapore-New York route will take 18 hours in each direction and save six hours of travel time.
The aircraft, christened A345 Leadership, has just 181 seats, allowing for more seating space and just two classes -- business and executive economy.
Passengers have to pay a 10% premium on the ticket, but officials and travellers said there is a market for the flights.
