Singapore Airlines Aims to Reclaim Longest Flight Title
By the end of this year, Singapore Airlines hopes to take back the record for the world’s longest flight on a newly developed aircraft.
Airbus will unveil its new A350-900 Ultra Long-Range jet later this year, and Singapore is slated to be the first airline to receive the plane, according to Straits Times.
Previously, Singapore Airlines operated a flight from Singapore to Newark but cancelled the route in 2013 due to prohibitive operational costs. With advancements in technology, however, the new A350-900 ULR may help make long flights more economically viable.
Enhanced Performance and Comfort
The A350-900 ULR is designed for ultra-long flights, boasting impressive fuel efficiency. This aircraft can fly up to 11,160 miles, which is about 1,800 miles more than a standard A350. Notably, the Singapore to New York route spans 9,521 miles and will take approximately 19 hours, well within the aircraft’s capabilities.
Flight Configuration and Amenities
Given the significant flight duration, Singapore Airlines plans to operate the flight with a two-class configuration, featuring both business and premium economy seating. Furthermore, the aircraft will include innovative lighting designed to combat jet lag, along with an advanced air circulation system that refreshes the cabin air every two minutes.
Current World Record for Longest Flight
The Singapore flight will surpass the existing world record holder, which is Qatar’s route from Auckland to Doha. This 9,032-mile journey takes about 18 hours. Additionally, Qantas’s flight from Perth to London, launched in March, is a close competitor, lasting just over 17 hours.
Future Plans for Long-Haul Service
Singapore Airlines has ordered seven A350-900ULR aircraft, which will significantly enhance its long-haul service across the globe. Moreover, the airline plans to introduce nonstop flights to Los Angeles, covering a 15-hour journey that is set to begin in 2019.
The A350-900 ULR completed its first test flight earlier this week at Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France, marking an exciting milestone for both the airline and aviation technology.