Singapore Airlines Premium Economy on the A380

Premium economy has become one of the most quietly competitive cabins in long haul travel, but Singapore Airlines has long held a reputation for getting the details right.

On SQ221 from Singapore to Sydney aboard the A380, I settled into seat 33D, a brilliant spot tucked behind the staircase to the upper deck and was quickly reminded why this cabin is so well regarded.

The Seat and Space

Singapore Airlines lists the premium economy seat at 19.5 inches wide (49.5cm), only half an inch more than standard economy, yet the design makes it feel more generous than the numbers suggest.

The wide armrests are the real hero here, creating a welcome sense of space between you and your neighbour. For anyone who values personal room, this simple improvement feels transformative.

Legroom is where premium economy really shines: 38 inches (96.5cm), a full six inches more than economy, and the difference is immediately noticeable. In 33D, the position offers excellent stretch-room without the slightly exposed feeling that often comes with sitting at an exit row.

The seat offers an impressive 8 inches of recline, paired with a substantial headrest and a large pillow. Relaxing was easy, and dozing off even easier. There’s a footrest, adjustable reading light, and plenty of small storage touches, a space for a water bottle, a nook in the armrest that fits a book or phone, and both an electric outlet under the seat and charging ports above the armrest.

The 2–4–2 configuration keeps the cabin feeling compact, and with just seven rows (four in the middle), the 44-seat layout retains an intimate atmosphere that avoids the bustle of larger cabins.

Entertainment and Practical Touches

Premium economy passengers enjoy a large screen set into the wall ahead, crisp, bright and responsive, paired with noise cancelling headphones.  KrisWorld remains one of the most extensive in-flight entertainment systems in the sky, with more than 1,800 options including movies, TV shows and games.

The seat is well equipped with USB ports, power points and individual spotlights.

Singapore Airlines’ design philosophy is evident in the little things: the thoughtful armrest storage, the calf rest and footrest built into each seat, and the comfortable leather finish.

For flights over seven hours, passengers can request a premium economy amenity kit with slippers, eyeshades and a hydrating lip balm, packaged in FSC-certified kraft paper.

Dining

Dinner began with prawns and a garlic bread roll, followed by a choice of beef bourguignon or barramundi.

The servings were generous, the flavours balanced and the presentation polished for this cabin. Dessert included cake, cheese and crackers and a chocolate.

I’m happy to note that Singapore Slings are available in premium economy, which brings a welcome splash of Singapore Airlines’ signature service spirit into this cabin.

Book the Cook

Singapore Airlines’ Book the Cook service is one of its most appealing features for premium cabins. It allows passengers to pre order a main meal from a wider menu before the flight, often including regional dishes and comfort classics that don’t appear on the standard tray.

Because book the cook is available on many premium economy routes, it is well worth exploring before travelling. It adds an easy level of personalisation, ensuring that the meal you want is served to you inflight, especially helpful for long haul sectors where food forms a big part of the comfort equation.

Kris+

The Singapore Airlines experience doesn’t end at the aircraft door. Kris+, the airline’s lifestyle and rewards app, allows passengers to earn or spend KrisFlyer miles across dining, retail and experiences in destinations all over the world.

It is especially handy in Singapore, where the network of participating outlets is broad, but it also works in cities like Sydney and London. Whether grabbing a coffee during a layover or picking up last minute essentials, Kris+ adds everyday value to the travel experience, particularly for frequent SIA flyers.

Overall Thoughts

Singapore Airlines’ premium economy on the A380 strikes an excellent balance between comfort, practicality and value.

The generous legroom, well designed seating, wide armrests and thoughtful cabin layout create a noticeably elevated experience compared with standard economy.

Add tasty food, noise cancelling headphones and the option of a Singapore Sling, and the journey becomes far more enjoyable than the term “middle cabin” suggests.

From the comfortable recline to the compact cabin feel, SQ221 delivered a premium economy experience that feels genuinely premium, and a reminder that thoughtful design can make all the difference at 35,000 feet.

Jenny’s upgrade was courtesy of Singapore Airlines.