Installation of SIA's premium economy seats delayed, flights affected

The launch of the Singapore Airlines' Premium Economy service in August has hit a snag, after delays to the installation of the premium economy seats mean passengers who booked flights between Sep 9 and Jan 29 next year may not be getting them.

Flights affected include those to New York, Sydney, New Delhi, and Tokyo.

According to a statement from the airline on its website, Premium Economy will not be available for these flights:

Customers with ticketed bookings who are affected by the delays will be "contacted progressively by Singapore Airlines or travel agents to offer alternative travel arrangements", said the airline.

In an email to AsiaOne, an SIA spokesperson apologised for the delay in the installation programme on some of the A380s: "We know that our customers are eagerly anticipating this product and are working to complete the installation works as quickly as possible."

The new seats were displayed for the first time in May to the media, travel agents and corporate clients, following a two-year development programme and an investment of about US$80 million (S$107 million).

Each seat in the Premium Economy Class has a width of either 18.5 or 19.5 inches, depending on aircraft type, with an 8-inch recline and a seat pitch of 38 inches. Along with active noise-cancelling headphones, a sleek 13.3-inch full HD monitor which is the largest in its class and other amenities, it promised passengers an enhanced in-flight entertainment experience.

candicec@sph.com.sg