- I’m gone Singapore Airlines is adding doors to business class as it flies to the current country.
- Demand for door-equipped cabins is widespread, with many global airlines jumping on the trend.
- I think the preferred flyer benefit will help Singapore raise its business class and compete better.
In early 2023, I flew Singapore Airlines on the world’s longest flight to experience what is considered top-tier business class.
It was one of my first long-haul trips at the front of the plane, so I was very impressed with the lie-flat bed, amenity suite, business class lounge access, and other luxury perks of premium flights.
One thing it lacked, however, was a sliding door. Instead, the seat had large privacy wings meant to screen passengers. By then, I was less bothered by the lack of privacy and was content with the bed and gourmet food on the 18-hour journey.
No door meant I could see directly into the cabin. Taylor Rains/Business Insider
Since then, I’ve flown in door-equipped business class on Japan’s All Nippon Airways and British Airways. I’ve joined the club of people who prefer the convenience of a fully enclosed tailgate, which proved to be a night and day difference in privacy.
I could sleep and work without feeling like prying eyes were looking over my shoulder. I was also less bothered by noise from the galleys and bathrooms and didn’t have a neighbor’s light annoyingly shining into my space when the cabin was dark.
Although it took around eight years to announce a significant upgrade to its high-value seat, five-star Singapore is finally bucking the door trend.
The carrier announced plans in November to retrofit 41 Airbus A350 aircraft with a new business class fitted with doors. It will also be on Singapore’s upcoming Boeing 777X aircraft. The first refurbished aircraft is expected to take off in the second quarter of 2026.
CEO Goh Choon Phong said in a press release that the change was a result of “the evolving preferences and expectations of its customers”.
It’s too early to tell what exactly Singapore has on deck for the new premium cabin, but the single mirror reflects the hotel-like suites they offer on All Nippon Airways and British Airways.
Singapore is finally introducing sliding doors in its long-haul business class. Singapore Airlines
Considering the door was the only feature included in the rendering, Singapore clearly wanted to highlight its addition.
I hope Singapore will also retain the other business class favorites like the food, extra-wide seats and ample space that make it one of the best airlines in the world.
Regardless, the new and improved business class cabin will be a welcome change for me and likely other travelers who may have once considered a competing long-haul airline simply for the more private experience.
Plus, the country is known for luxury, so having a business class to match will attract more high-dollar elites and help Singapore fare better in the highly competitive market – especially after losing out to Qatar with five stars for Skytrax in the world. the best business class in 2024.
Air India launched its new pod-like business class in January as it completely revamps its brand.
Air India’s new business class has 28 suites with sliding doors. Taylor Rains/Business Insider
I toured the cabin and thought it could easily increase the company’s premium competitive edge – and a much-needed change from its old, clunky business class that still flies on many routes.
Turkish Airlines, American Airlines and Korean Air are among several other companies that are also leaning into the popular trend.