If the business class cabin of the Singapore Airlines 737Max is very nice, the service on board is disappointing even for such a short flight.
My flight from Copenhagen arrived late and I only had 10 minutes before boarding for Kuala Lumpur. Fortunately the two gates were very close so I wasn’t worried at all. However, I had the feeling that I had inherited the role of the black cat and that once again this year, and especially for the second time in 48 hours, my luggage was not going to arrive at its destination at the same time as me. Anyway, I trust Singapore Airlines to handle this if it happens and think instead of this Boeing 737 Max that I’m about to discover.
You will find all the articles related to this trip in Malaysia at the bottom of the page.
Ground experience
My departure gate was a few dozen meters from my arrival gate, a real chance because in Singapore you can have to walk a lot. So the 10 minutes before boarding were more than enough, especially with the help of the travelators.
The only problem is that in Singapore the security checks are done before entering the boarding lounge but once you are in the queue you will be waited. Moreover, I am far from being the last one.
However, only one checkpoint is open out of the two available so it will take an unnecessary amount of time but nothing serious.
Boarding
The boarding starts while I’m still in the security line so I’ll go directly from the controls to the plane without having to wait in the lounge. It is a blessing in disguise.
I take the opportunity to take a picture of our 737MAX.
Considering the context, it’s a bit clogged at the gate but after a minute I’ll be in the cabin.
The business class cabin of the Singapore Airlines 737Max
The reason why I was eager to fly is that Singapore Airlines is one of the few airlines to have a specific business class cabin on its single-aisle medium-haul aircraft. Of course there are medium-haul aircraft operated by twin-aisle aircraft that have a long-haul business class cabin (like this B787 on Singapore-Bali or this A350 on Singapore-Kuala Lumpur), single-aisle long-haul aircraft (like this A321 TAP between Lisbon and Boston) but on single-aisle medium-haul aircraft except for Turkish Airlines (here on Istanbul-Goteborg by B737) I don’t have another example that comes to mind.
And here is the cabin of this 737.
The rows in a 2-2 configuration alternate with those in a 1-1 configuration where there is a throne seat on each side of the aisle. Unfortunately I could not reserve such a seat, they were already taken.
The legroom is very comfortable and the screen is a good size. It is touch-sensitive unlike the one on the A350 that I just took.
The seat controls are simple.
We have a reading light at our disposal.
A very nice cabin to which I will perhaps make only one reproach: the lack of width at the level of the elbows. But considering the duration of the flight it is anecdotal.
The flight and the service
During the boarding a welcome drink (non alcoholic) is offered to us: apple or orange juice. The order is also taken for the meal served in flight: considering the duration of the flight as much not to waste time. You can choose between foccaccia with vegetables or chicken. I’ll have the chicken.
Meanwhile I look out the window and see the A350 that brought me from Copenhagen.
But I’m under no illusion: unless there is a board to board transfer for short connecting bags, I don’t think I’ll have any chance of finding mine on the carousel in Kuala Lumpur.
We leave on time and take off for this hop.
The plane makes a loop over the airport to leave in the direction of Malaysia, which allows me to take some views of the Singapore Changi airport and the cargo ships waiting at the port.
Le service commence rapidement. Even for such a short flight they put a tablecloth, it’s good. On the other hand the dish is really disappointing.
It is basic and has almost no taste. So of course on a 40 minutes flight it doesn’t matter too much and you will say that I am picky. Mais déjà j’ai noté le même style de remarques négatives de la part de plusieurs passagers qui avaient pris un vol court intra-européen en 5th freedom on Singapore Airlines, and moreover you will see that 24 hours later on a domestic flight of the same or even shorter duration, Malaysia Airlines will offer something much more interesting.
I don’t have time to meditate too much on the subject, our descent begins.
The Crew
What can I say about such a short flight? Efficient.
Landing and arrival
We arrive safely in Kuala Lumpur and after a very short drive we are at our parking gate.
I head to immigration and the queue is long. On the other hand, I will be alone in the priority line dedicated to business class and whose signage is very unclear as to who can use it. I tried, I passed.
As soon as we arrived at the carousel the luggage of our flight started to arrive but at the same time I received an e-mail.
This time I won’t say that I didn’t expect it. After the lamentable episode with TAP in spring and especially the delayed suitcase the day before on my Frankfurt-Goteborg flight, here is my 2nd baggage delay of the year, the 2nd in 48h.
The first one resulted in the theft of my luggage under the responsibility of TAP, a flight that the airline still refuses to compensate.
The second incident was remarkably managed by Lufthansa and the SAS handler even if I only got my luggage back the next day.
What will happen this time?
Following the instructions I go to the baggage incident office, fill out a form and they confirm that my suitcase will be delivered to my hotel around 3:00 pm. So I will wait at my hotel.
At the scheduled time the next Singapore Airlines flight brings it to Kuala Lumpur. This is confirmed by my airtag.
3:00pm it did not move from the airport. 4:00 pm either. 5:00 pm either. And yet the online status says “delivery in progress”. It starts to irritate me especially since it’s been 2 days that I could not change because of the first delay and the next morning I leave for Langkawi and I do not want to meet my suitcase on the road.
While having a drink at the hotel bar I check again…and let out a curse when I see that nothing is moving. A gentleman who was talking to the bartender asked me if I had a problem and if he could help me. It is the concierge of the hotel. I explain to him and add that I have called several times to the phone number given to me and nobody answers. He invites me to follow him.
He tells me that he has “better” phone numbers and that this is the kind of situation he deals with daily. He calls, raises the tone a little, says to them that one sees well that the luggage did not move contrary to what they say and that if the hotel must send a car to seek it they will do it.
Strangely enough, after about ten minutes, the luggage finally starts to move. It will still take some time to get to the hotel because they had to deal with many on the same tour but at 9:30 pm it is finally delivered. It’s Saturday night, I haven’t changed since Thursday morning but I can see the end of the tunnel.
This concierge was, as you will see, probably the only positive point of my stay in this Ritz Carlton really not up to par.
Bottom line
A very pleasant cabin for a single-aisle aircraft but a service below expectations.
The delay of the luggage was inevitable and it was very well managed by Singapore Airlines who, like Lufthansa the day before, proactively alerted me and did their job. Then there is just the baggage service in Kuala Lumpur which took a bit of time and certainly had many suitcases to deal with and I would not have been too moved if it was not the second delay in a row and if I did not leave the next morning.
Good flight and well managed incident.
All articles about this trip in Malaysia.
Review # | Type | Post |
#1 | Diary | Genesis of a trip to Malaysia |
#2 | Hotel | Moxy Roissy CDG |
#3 | Flight | Paris-Frankfurt, Lufthansa Business Class |
#4 | Lounge | Panorama lounge, Frankfurt |
#5 | Flight | Frankfurt-Goteborg, Lufthansa Business Class |
#6 | Hotel | Scandic Rubinen, Goteborg |
#7 | Restaurant | Kaifo, Goteborg |
#8 | Lounge | SAS Lounge, Goteborg |
#9 | Flight | Goteborg-Copenhagen, SAS, SAS Plus |
#10 | Lounge | SAS Gold Lounge, Copenhagen |
#11 | Flight | Copenhagen-Singapore, Singapore Airlines, Business Class |
#12 | Flight | Singapore-Kuala Lumpur, Singapore Airlines, Business Class |
#13 | Hotel | Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur |
#14 | Lounge | Golden Lounge Domestic, Malaysia Airlines, Kuala Lumpur |
#15 | Flight | Kuala Lumpur-Langkawi, Malaysia Airlines, Business Class |
#16 | Hotel | The Westin Langkawi |
#17 | Hotel | The Ritz Carlton Langkawi |
#18 | Lounge | Plaza Premium Lounge Langkawi |
#19 | Flight | Langkawi-Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Airlines, Business Class |
#20 | Hotel | JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur |
#21 | Restaurant | Cilantro, Kuala Lumpur |
#22 | Lounge | Plaza Premium Lounge, Kuala Lumpur (Satellite terminal, international flights) |
#23 | Flight | Kuala Lumpur-Singapore, Singapore Airlines Business Class |
#24 | Lounge | Singapore Airlines Krisflyer Lounge, Singapour T3 |
#25 | Flight | Singapore-Copenhagen, Singapore Airlines Business Class |
#26 | Flight | Copenhagen-Goteborg, SAS, SAS Plus |
#27 | Hotel | Radisson Blu Scandinavia, Goteborg |
#28 | Restaurant | 28+ Goteborg |
#29 | Flight | Goteborg-Munich, Lufthansa Business Class |
#30 | Lounge | Lufthansa Senator Lounge, Munich T2 satellite |
#31 | Flight | Munich-Paris, Lufthansa Business Class |
#32 | Diary | Debriefing the trip |
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Thai in Business Class on Bangkok-Singapore: it gets betterFAQs
What are the benefits of business class on Singapore Airlines? ›
An impressive selection of 1,000 entertainment options – movies, television programmes, music, games and apps – on a 15.4-inch wide LCD screen with noise-cancelling headphones. On selected flights, stay in touch with family, friends and colleagues with Internet connectivity, as well as text and multimedia messaging.
Which airline is better Singapore or Malaysia? ›As such, they offer travelers a wide range of flight options and services, and both have proven track records of safety and reliability. However, Singapore Airlines is generally considered to be the superior of the two, in terms of both service quality and customer satisfaction.
Does Singapore Airlines give pajamas in business class? ›Re: Pajamas offered in Singapore Airlines biz class? In business class with Singapore Airlines you do not get PJ's just a small bag with socks and eye mask. There are other toiletries in the loo like tooth brush and paste.
Do Singapore Airlines business class seats recline? ›Relax in comfort
Ergonomically designed and upholstered in leather, your Business Class seats recline to fully-flat beds over six feet long. With ample stowage areas, your travel essentials are always in easy reach.
- Join The Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Loyalty Program. ...
- Sign Up For A Credit Card Associated With The Singapore Airlines. ...
- Singapore Airlines Upgrade Bid. ...
- Volunteer To Be Bumped To A Later Flight. ...
- Show Up Early To The Airport. ...
- Dress Appropriately. ...
- Fly Frequently.
Exclusive lounge access
The Business Class area of the SilverKris Lounge, together with a guest who is also departing on Singapore Airlines on the same flight.
...
Final Thoughts: Singapore vs Malaysia.
Category | Winner |
---|---|
Hikes | Malaysia |
Beaches | Malaysia |
Nightlife | Singapore |
Budget-friendly | Malaysia |
Singapore's Changi airport is closer to the city (about 20kms from the central business district) and the subway system makes it a snap to get to. KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) is much further from the city centre (almost 60kms) so you need to factor in a lot more time to reach the airport.
What is the best airline to fly to Malaysia? ›Malaysia Airlines or Singapore Airlines
The best airlines to use when flying to Malaysia are Malaysia Airlines (MAS) and Singapore Airlines (SIA). Both airlines are almost yearly renowned for being in the list of top airlines in the world.
Blankets. Business and first-class flights offer comfort items like blankets during the flight. You must leave them on board when you're leaving the plane as they can be reused. “Paying more to travel in a better class does not entitle passengers to take items offered for the journey,” says Webber.
What to wear in business class Singapore Airlines? ›
The general rule of thumb when it comes to the business class dress code for most is smart casual, so you can still get away with your comfy flying pants however thongs (flip-flops), beachwear or clothing with offensive images or slogans are not permitted.
Are Singapore business class seats flat? ›Singapore Airlines business-class seats vary depending on the aircraft type. However, you can be sure you'll have a spacious lie-flat seat with aisle access on all long-haul international and regional flights. You can even find lie-flat seats in business class on some of Singapore Airlines' short-haul aircraft.
Where is best to sit in business class? ›The best seats in Business Class
In Business Class, I'll always book a window seat (with the seat next to the window) at least one row away from the galley and lavatories. Bulkhead seats offer more room but I would only choose these if they're not near the galley/lavatories, or if they have doors.
Bottom line. Ultimately Emirates and Singapore both offer great business class products, though in this case I think the choice is simple. On Singapore you'll get a “real” longhaul flight, while on Emirates you'll get two medium haul flights, which won't really allow you to get much rest.
What is the difference between business class and first class in Singapore? ›While business class passengers are given a lot more leg room than economy and a fully reclining seat, those with a first class ticket are often treated to entire suites with fully closing sliding doors, extra comfy double beds and enormous entertainment screens.
Can I ask for a free upgrade to business class? ›The most straightforward way is to call and ask. While they won't give you specifics, most airlines will tell you if there are business class seats available, and whether economy is full. Another way to find out is by logging into the airline website with your booking number.
How to get free upgrade at hotel Singapore? ›One can always call the hotel directly to confirm their reservation and converse warmly with the agent and request an upgrade. Lastly, one can always inform the hotel that the purpose of the visit is for a special occasion like a milestone birthday or anniversary. Some hotels with upgrade such reservations.
How much should I bid to upgrade to business class? ›Follow this equation for a bid price: Calculate the regular cost of a business class seat. Subtract what you paid for the economy fare, and aim for around 20% to 40% of the remaining price. Bid slightly above the minimum to beat the crowd, since most people will choose the minimum.
Which Singapore Airlines business lounge is best? ›The Singapore Airline SilverKris Business Lounge is fantastic. Not only is it a great lounge in absolute terms, but it's such an improvement over the old lounge. It's much bigger than before and has natural light.
How long can you stay in Singapore Business lounge? ›SERVICE | TYPE | NO. OF HOURS |
---|---|---|
Lounge Use | Adult | 10 hours |
Child (above 2 years old) | 5 hours | |
Child (below 2 years old) | Complimentary | |
Private Resting Suite | Single Suite | 6 hours |
Do you automatically get lounge access with business class? ›
If you're on a domestic portion of a transcontinental flight and have a business class ticket, you should be able to enjoy all of the snacks, space, and amenities provided at either airport. Otherwise, you can look into getting a credit card that offers access to airport lounges.
Should I stay in Singapore or Malaysia? ›Weather & Best Time To Visit. While Singapore offers a tropical climate throughout the year, Malaysia experiences hot and humid weather around the year. Any time of the year happens to be the best time to visit Singapore except for the rainy season which spans from the month of November to December.
Is Kuala Lumpur better than Singapore? ›Both Kuala Lumpur and Singapore have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Singapore than Kuala Lumpur. The ideal length of time for a trip to Kuala Lumpur is 1-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Singapore is 2-7 days.
Which country is safer Malaysia or Singapore? ›...
Crime Comparison Between Malaysia and Singapore.
Index | Malaysia | Singapore |
---|---|---|
Crime Index: | 50.75 | 41.75 |
Safety Scale: | 49.25 | 58.25 |
There are many ways to travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, including plane, intercity bus, train, and private transfer. The most-chosen way (for international travelers) to get to Kuala Lumpur from Singapore is by plane and the cheapest way is by bus.
What is the best way to travel from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur? ›There are several ways to get from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital city, including plane, intercity bus, train, and private transfers. The most popular (for international passengers) mode of transportation from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur is via airline, while the cheapest mode of transportation is by bus.
Which airline is better for Singapore? ›Singaporeans, you should be proud. Singapore Airlines (SIA) was recently named the best airline for the year 2023 in the 49th Annual Air Transport World (ATW) Airline Industry Achievement Awards. This makes it the third time SIA was named the best.
What is the cheapest time of year to fly to Malaysia? ›When is the cheapest time to fly to Malaysia? We crunched some numbers and found that the cheapest month to fly to Malaysia is currently September.
Is there a direct flight from USA to Malaysia? ›There are no nonstop flights available from the USA to Malaysia.
What is the safest airline in Malaysia? ›Malaysia Airlines operates with safety protocols and procedures that are endorsed by its IATA IOSA certification and is overseen by Malaysia's Civil Aviation Authority which scores well in ICAO's Country Audits.
Do people wear Pyjamas in business class? ›
Furthermore, since you can keep pajamas, they're a fun way to remember a great flight, and can also be enjoyed at home, especially if you're an avgeek. While most airlines offer pajamas in first class, it's pretty rare to get them in business class.
Can you wear sneakers in business class? ›Close-toed shoes are ideal footwear option for business class travel. You can either pick up flats, boots, ankle boots, even leather sneakers if you want to add an urban vibe to your business class outfit. You can also choose pumps, if you like them and think you will feel fine wearing them for long hours.
How do you sleep on a plane in business class? ›- Bring your own pillow and/or blanket.
- Wear comfortable clothes.
- Use a sleep mask.
- Follow your usual bedtime routine as close as possible when you're on the plane.
- Invest in a pair of noise-canceling headphones or earplugs.
- Don't drink billions of bellinis. ...
- Don't clean your bare feet with the hot towel. ...
- Don't get angry if your nuts are served in a packet. ...
- Don't post a photo of your boarding pass on Instagram. ...
- Don't wear activewear in the lounge. ...
- Don't wear wireless in-ear headphones while you sleep. ...
- Don't ask other passengers to move.
Fresh supplies for every flight
Headsets, headrest covers, pillow covers, bedsheets and blankets will be replaced after every flight.
Unless there is a dress code, wear what you want. Dress in what makes you comfortable.
Does Boeing 737 MAX 8 have lie-flat seats? ›For example, Copa Airlines' new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft uses lie-flat business class seats just like you'll find on American Airlines A321T and United Boeing 757 aircraft.
Does Boeing 737 MAX 8 have lay flat seats? ›In total SIA's 737-8 aircraft will have 154 seats in two classes – 10 in Business Class and 144 in Economy Class, with new cabin products featuring bespoke elements. The lie-flat Business Class seats have been designed by London-based Factorydesign, and manufactured for Singapore Airlines by Thompson Aero Seating.
Can you sit in an empty business class seat? ›So, yes, the flight attendants know which seats in business (or first) class are supposed to be empty, and if someone is found in one, they'll be asked to move... (and if you're on a US-based carrier, it might be a little stronger than just a request!)
How do I get the best out of business class? ›- Choose the best seat for you. ...
- Be well-rested. ...
- Check in online. ...
- Show up early and use the lounge. ...
- Dress on purpose. ...
- Use the fast-track security and boarding gates. ...
- Business during the flight. ...
- Settle in.
What is the most space efficient business class seat? ›
OPTIMA is the most space efficient direct aisles access high-end business class solution. It offers a unique balance between passenger comfort and airlines revenue efficiency.
Which seat is best for international flight? ›The best seat for maximum legroom: Any exit-row seat. The best seat for sleeping or limited noise: A window seat away from the bathroom and cabin crew areas. The best seat for minimal turbulence: A seat over the wing.
What are the benefits of Singapore Airlines business class? ›An impressive selection of 1,000 entertainment options – movies, television programmes, music, games and apps – on a 15.4-inch wide LCD screen with noise-cancelling headphones. On selected flights, stay in touch with family, friends and colleagues with Internet connectivity, as well as text and multimedia messaging.
Does Singapore Airlines business class have Pyjamas? ›Re: Pajamas offered in Singapore Airlines biz class? In business class with Singapore Airlines you do not get PJ's just a small bag with socks and eye mask. There are other toiletries in the loo like tooth brush and paste.
What are the different types of business class in Singapore Airlines? ›Singapore offers two different business class products. There's the long-haul and regional business class product that they have on most of their aircraft and which features spacious pod seating with lie-flat seats, and then there's the regional business class on the 737-800 which has comfortable recliner-style seats.
Is business class as good as first class? ›Business-class might offer more legroom but doesn't offer a private space. The food and drink in business class are typically at a restaurant level. However, first-class dining might be at another level with an award-winning chef setting the menu.
Is business class the same as first class on international flights? ›Generally speaking, the biggest difference you are going to find between business class and first class will come from the actual seat you will sit in. First class chairs are generally bigger, more comfortable, more private, and more exclusive. But it varies from airline to airline.
What benefits do you get with business class? ›- Priority billing. ...
- Additional baggage allowance. ...
- Business class waiting room. ...
- Priority boarding. ...
- Bigger and better seat. ...
- Luxury dinner. ...
- Services and facilities. ...
- Be the first to leave the plane.
The Seats. Obviously, one of the biggest differences between business class and economy is the seats. The business class seats are spacious, come with an amenity kit and over-the-ear headphones, and can turn into lie-flat beds when it's time to get some shut-eye.
What is included in business class flights? ›- Priority check-in, security and boarding.
- Premium seats, including more space and lie-flat beds.
- Lounge access.
- Complimentary alcoholic beverages and enhanced food options.
- Amenity kits.
- Dedicated overhead space for your carry-on luggage.
What are the benefits of taking a business class? ›
Business classes teach you communication skills, problem-solving, teamwork, critical thinking, and leadership — all of which are crucial within any professional environment. A general business class, for example, can provide you with a more in-depth understanding of how to address problems in the workplace.
What extras do you get in business class? ›- Check-In More Luggage – At No Extra Cost. ...
- Priority Check-In Queue. ...
- Club Lounge Access. ...
- Early Boarding on The Aircraft. ...
- Welcome Drinks, Plus a Few More. ...
- Hearty Meals, Served on Plates. ...
- Handy Amenity Kit. ...
- Sweet Dreams in a Flat Bed.
- Choose the best seat for you. ...
- Be well-rested. ...
- Check in online. ...
- Show up early and use the lounge. ...
- Dress on purpose. ...
- Use the fast-track security and boarding gates. ...
- Business during the flight. ...
- Settle in.
As opposed to standard economy, premium economy provides a level of service between that of coach and business class. It offers premium services, including in-flight entertainment, a wider variety of delicious food options, and expedited check-in, all of which contribute to a higher standard of passenger satisfaction.
Is Business lounge food free? ›When you book into an airport lounge you will be able to enjoy a variety of complimentary meals, snacks and drinks before boarding your flight. Although food and snack items may vary within each lounge, there's usually a great selection of sandwiches, cakes and biscuits to choose from.
Do you get free drinks in business class? ›Yes, international and domestic business class receive complimentary drinks — including a variety of beers, wines and spirits to complement the food menu. Note that short flights might not offer a full drink service.
Do business class seats fully recline? ›The business class seats still recline fully flat, but you don't get a separate bed (your seat is your bed), you'll have less privacy from other passengers, and there is less personal space allocated just for you.
What is best in class in business? ›Best in class is a benchmarking term used to refer identify organizations that outperform all others in a specified category.
What is better than business class? ›International first class is the ultimate flying experience — it's the best cabin across the board on commercial aircraft, ranked above business class, and it has the price tag to match.
Is food in business class good? ›The business class meals and drinks have quality similar to those of restaurant meals. They are fresh and consist of high quality ingredients and spices. Some airlines even have their own professional cook on -board who prepares the menu on the airplane. This guarantees the great taste and quality of the meals.