Super-jumbo to serve vaccinated travel lane passengers
Singapore Airlines (SIA) is set to reintroduce its Airbus A380 for daily flights between Singapore and London starting next month, capitalising on robust demand from vaccinated travel lane (VTL) arrangements.
Beginning 18 November, the iconic super-jumbo will operate as flight SQ322 from Singapore to London, with SQ317 handling the return leg from 19 November. SQ317 is designated for quarantine-free VTL travel to the United Kingdom, which commences 19 October.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore reports that approximately 40 per cent of issued VTL passes—976 in total—have gone to UK travellers. SIA attributed the move to increased passenger demand during the year-end holiday season, emphasising the A380’s popularity.
Ad Hoc Deployment Preceding Full Service
Before fully resuming operations, the A380 will be deployed on selected short-haul flights for operational purposes. SIA has stated it will remain flexible in adjusting capacity to meet market demand.
Super-Jumbo Features and Fleet Status
SIA’s Airbus A380, seating 471 passengers, offers six luxurious suites, 78 business class seats, 44 premium economy seats, and 343 economy seats. First introduced in October 2007, it initially flew the Singapore-Sydney route.
However, the pandemic drastically affected operations. In November 2020, SIA announced the retirement of seven A380s due to a severe financial downturn, including a net loss of S$3.5 billion in the first half of the year. Recently, two retired A380s were scrapped at Changi Exhibition Centre, drawing aviation enthusiasts to witness the operation.
Future Outlook
Despite recording a record S$4.3 billion annual loss in May, SIA is optimistic about its future, leveraging the growing demand for international travel and its reputation for offering premium passenger experiences aboard the A380.
