Singapore Airlines on its way to New York for the world's longest flight

On 30 May, Singapore Airlines announced the scheduling of an 18-hour, 45-minute flight over 16,700 km linking Singapore to New York. And it is already thinking of landing in Los Angeles.
By Nicolas Brouste -
Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 ULR
Service between Singapore and New York is back on track thanks to the Airbus A350-900 ULR © Singapore Airlines

On 11 October, Singapore Airlines will be flying the world's longest commercial flight. The airline confirmed this on 30 May by announcing the return of the Singapore-Newark (New York) route. The 16,700 km journey will take 18 hours and 45 minutes.. The current record holder, Qatar Airwayshad distinguished itself a few months earlier by carrying its passengers from Doha to Auckland in New Zealand in 17 hours and 40 minutes.

Singapore Airlines' technical prowess has been made possible by the arrival of the latest Airbus A350-900 Ultra Long Range (ULR), of which "SIA" is the launch company. The first model will be delivered in September, followed by six more before the end of the year. This aircraft has been designed for very long-haul flights, and the latest advances in the aeronautical field have improved the profitability of these flights. It is important to remember that flights covering long distances without stopovers already existed.But the companies weren't always able to make the most of it.

The interior of the Airbus A350-900 ULR © Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines' A350-900 ULR features 67 seats in Business Class and 94 in Premium Economy Class. It will initially operate three flights a week - every Monday, Thursday and Saturday - before the entry into service of an additional A350-900ULR which will enable the Singaporean carrier to adopt a daily frequency. Tickets have been on sale since 31 May.

" We are proud to once again be at the forefront of innovation using the latest technology offered by the Airbus A350-900ULR. "Goh Choon Phong, CEO of Singapore Airlines, is delighted. " The flights will offer our customers the fastest way to travel between the two cities - in great comfort, with Singapore Airlines' legendary service - and will help strengthen the connectivity of the Singapore hub. "he adds. And indeed, the company will feature higher ceilings, wider windows and lights designed to reduce jet-lag. What's more, the aircraft's new fuselage should improve overall air quality. The airline is not resting on its laurels, however, and is now planning to enter the Singapore-Los Angeles route.

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