Will second time be the charm for SIA’s non-stop flights to the US?

The flights would commence in 2018.

Singapore’s flag carrier has previously operated similar non-stop flights to the US in 2013, but the cost outweighed the benefits, causing it to be stopped prematurely.

However, as SIA launches its 19-hour flights again, analysts are saying it would achieve a different result.

According to UOB Kay Hian, the resumption of non-stop flights to the US is a strategic move, as flights would ensue with the more fuel efficient A350-900ULR.

UOB Kay Hian said the move means tapping into the golden opportunity on the North American long-haul market which has fewer competitors and no Gulf presence.

“We [also] view this as a strategic move to lower the risk of customers switching to other carriers that operate services to the US,” UOB Kay Hian said.