SIA to launch ultra-long-range flights to New York on 11 October

It is the first customer for Airbus' ultra-long-range planes, A350-900ULR.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) will launch the world’s longest commercial flights on 11 October, with non-stop services between Singapore and New York using the new Airbus A350-900ULR (ultra-long-range).

According to an announcement, the flights will be launched to Newark Liberty International Airport. The route will initially be served three times a week, departing Singapore on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. Daily operations will commence from 18 October.

SIA said it is the world’s first customer for the new A350-900ULR, with seven on firm order with Airbus. "The aircraft will be configured in a two-class layout, with 67 Business Class seats and 94 Premium Economy Class seats," it added.

Flights will cover a distance of approximately 9,000nm (16,700km), and travelling time will be up to 18 hours and 45 minutes. SIA served the Singapore-Newark route until 2013, when services were suspended after the aircraft used at the time, Airbus A340-500s, were returned to Airbus. 

"The A350-900ULR will offer customers a more comfortable travelling experience with features such as higher ceilings, larger windows, an extra wide body and lighting designed to reduce jetlag. Its carbon composite airframe also allows for improved air quality due to a more optimised cabin altitude and humidity levels," SIA said.

SIA currently has 21 A350-900s in its fleet, with 46 more on order including seven of the ULR variant. The first A350-900ULR is due for delivery in September, with all seven due for delivery by the end of the year.