Singapore Airlines becomes new operator of A350 XWB

Singapore Airlines has taken delivery of its first A350 XWB in Toulouse, France, becoming the fifth operator of the all-new widebody airliner. The A350 XWB will form the backbone of Singapore Airlines’ future mid-size widebody fleet. Singapore Airlines’ aircraft is configured in a premium three class layout with 253 seats, comprising 42 Business Class, 24 Premium Economy and 187 Economy. After an initial period flying on regional services to Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta the aircraft will be deployed on long haul flights from May, starting with Amsterdam and then Dusseldorf. Altogether the airline has ordered 67 A350-900s which will be operated on long range flights, as well as on selected regional services. Seven of the aircraft will be delivered with an ultra-long range capability for flights of up to 19 hours, allowing the carrier to resume non-stop flights to the US. The A350 XWB will join an existing Airbus fleet at Singapore Airlines that currently comprises 19 double decker A380s and 29 A330-300s, making the carrier an operator of the complete Airbus Widebody Family.