Upgraded Aircraft to Resume Flights on Regional Routes
Singapore Airlines (SIA) will soon reintroduce its Boeing 737-8 aircraft into service after a two-year grounding. The airline announced that the six revamped planes, previously under the SilkAir brand, will operate on short- to medium-haul routes, including destinations in Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and other regional locations, pending regulatory approvals.
The 737-8 had been grounded globally after two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019. Following design improvements and extensive safety evaluations, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) lifted the suspension in September. SIA has since returned the planes to Singapore from Australia, where they were parked during the grounding.
To enhance passenger comfort, SIA invested approximately S$230 million in upgrading the cabin interiors. The 737-8 now offers a premium experience with two classes: 10 Business Class seats that convert into flatbeds and 144 Economy Class seats featuring ergonomic designs. Additionally, the aircraft includes advanced in-flight entertainment systems, Wi-Fi, and mobile connectivity.
SIA plans to extend these upgrades to its future 737-8 fleet, demonstrating a commitment to safety and innovation. Addressing concerns over consumer confidence, the airline highlighted positive feedback from markets where the aircraft has been successfully reintroduced.
