The new premium economy seats and cabin will be launched in the second half of next year, the airline revealed this morning.
A spokesperson for Singapore Airlines confirmed to Australian Business Traveller that premium economy "will enter service in the second half of 2015, initially on Boeing 777-300ERs and very soon after on A380s... as well as the A350-900s that will operate on long-haul routes."
The new seats will begin to be fitted from the middle of 2015.
"We aim to have a good number of aircraft fitted with the new cabin product within a short timeframe", the spokesperson said, adding that "we're aiming to have a very competitive offering featuring more space, amenities and convenience. These are important aspects that our studies have shown Premium Economy customers are looking for."
Australian Business Traveller understands the airline's focus for premium economy will be on long-distance routes, although "it will also be offered on some prime medium-haul routes."
Singapore Airlines Regional Vice President (South West Pacific) Tiow Kor Tan told Australian Business Traveller than while he could not "provide details at this point on the deployment of our new Premium Economy across our global network, there is no doubt this is a welcome move for our Australian customers."
The Singapore flag-carrier has long been skeptical of the value of a 'better than economy but less than business' cabin, claiming that its economy class was more than good enough.
However, it has now fallen into line with other airlines which have embraced premium economy including Qantas, British Airways, Cathay Pacific and most recently Lufthansa.
The airline also plans to upgrade its entire fleet of Boeing 777-300ER jets with new first class, business and economy seating.
Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong refused to elaborate on the premium economy plans, only saying that "when we set our mind to do something, it will be done well."
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