Singapore Airlines Premium Economy: London To Singapore Review

Hey everyone! So, you're thinking about flying Singapore Airlines from London to Singapore, and you're eyeing that Premium Economy cabin? Smart move, guys! I recently had the chance to experience this exact route, and let me tell you, it's a fantastic sweet spot between regular economy and the full-blown business class experience. If you're looking for a bit more comfort and space on that long-haul haul without completely breaking the bank, this is definitely one to consider. We'll dive deep into what makes it special, from the seats to the service, and whether it's worth the extra dough. So, buckle up, grab a cuppa, and let's get into the nitty-gritty of flying Singapore Airlines Premium Economy from London to Singapore.

The London Heathrow Experience: Starting Strong

Alright, let's kick things off with the London Heathrow experience. Singapore Airlines usually operates out of Terminal 2 at Heathrow, and honestly, it's a pretty decent terminal to start your journey. Premium Economy passengers typically get priority check-in, which is a huge plus, especially if you're flying during peak times. Nobody likes standing in a massive queue, right? After breezing through check-in, you can head towards security. While there isn't a dedicated priority security lane specifically for Premium Economy on all airlines at Heathrow, Singapore Airlines often partners with Star Alliance, so sometimes there are benefits there. It's worth checking on the day. Once you're airside, you'll find the usual array of shops and eateries. For Premium Economy passengers, you often get lounge access, though it might be to a different lounge than what Business or First Class guests use. Singapore Airlines' SilverKris Lounge is usually the go-to, and it's a comfortable spot to relax, grab a bite, and have a drink before your flight. The food selection in the lounge is generally good, with a variety of hot and cold options, and a decent bar. It’s a nice way to ease into the long flight ahead. The boarding process for Premium Economy is also usually called before the general economy passengers, meaning you get to settle into your seat with less fuss. This priority boarding is a small but significant perk that contributes to a less stressful start to your journey. The overall impression of the ground experience at London Heathrow for Singapore Airlines Premium Economy is one of efficiency and comfort, setting a positive tone for the flight.

Settling into Your Premium Economy Seat: A Game Changer

The Singapore Airlines Premium Economy seat is where the magic really happens, guys. This is the core of why you’d choose this cabin. Compared to standard economy, the difference is immediately noticeable. The seats are wider, offering more personal space, which is crucial on a flight that can be anywhere from 12 to 13 hours long. You're not going to be constantly bumping elbows with your neighbour! But it's not just the width; the legroom is significantly increased. The pitch – that’s the distance between your seat and the one in front – is much more generous, allowing you to stretch out your legs fully. No more cramming your knees against the seat in front of you! The seat itself is also designed for comfort. It’s usually upholstered in a premium leather, which feels nice and is easy to keep clean. The recline is also more substantial than in economy, allowing you to get into a more relaxed position for sleeping or watching movies. Crucially, each seat comes with a calf rest and a footrest. These might sound like small things, but trust me, they make a world of difference on a long-haul flight. Being able to elevate your legs can really help with circulation and reduce swelling, making you feel much fresher upon arrival. The seat also typically has a USB port and a power outlet, so you can keep your devices charged throughout the flight – essential for staying entertained or catching up on work. The tray table is usually a decent size, big enough to comfortably eat a meal or use a laptop. There are also usually a couple of personal reading lights and a coat hook. The overall design is ergonomic, aiming to provide maximum comfort and support for a long duration. The cabin itself is often configured in a more spacious layout, typically 2-4-2 seating, which means fewer people in the middle seats and easier access to the aisle. This sense of space and privacy, combined with the enhanced seat features, truly elevates the flying experience beyond what you'd get in economy.

In-Flight Service and Dining: A Taste of Luxury

Now, let's talk about the in-flight service and dining in Singapore Airlines' Premium Economy. They really try to make you feel special here, and for the most part, they succeed. When you first settle in, you're usually offered a welcome drink, often champagne or juice, which is a lovely touch. The crew are generally very attentive and friendly. They’re trained to provide a high level of service, and they’re usually quick to respond to requests. The meal service is a significant upgrade from economy. You’ll typically be given a menu, and Singapore Airlines is renowned for its 'Book the Cook' service, which allows you to pre-select your main course from an extended menu online before your flight. This is a fantastic option if you have specific dietary requirements or just want something a bit more gourmet than the standard offerings. Even if you don't 'Book the Cook', the standard meals served are still a cut above economy. They often feature higher quality ingredients and more refined presentation. You'll get an appetizer, a main course, and a dessert, served on proper crockery with metal cutlery – none of that plastic stuff here! The portions are usually generous, and the food is generally well-prepared and tasty. Think dishes like roasted lamb, grilled fish, or a nice vegetarian option. They also offer a good selection of beverages, including wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks. The mid-flight snack and breakfast service are also typically better than in economy, often including items like sandwiches, pastries, or noodles. The attention to detail in the meal service, from the linen napkins to the quality of the food itself, really contributes to the premium feel. It’s not quite the same as the dining experience in Business Class, of course, but it’s a very satisfying step up from economy. The crew also do regular drink runs, so you’re not left thirsty. They’re proactive in offering water and other beverages throughout the flight, which is essential on long journeys. The overall service is polished, efficient, and genuinely aims to make your journey as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. It’s this combination of good food, good drinks, and good service that makes the Premium Economy experience feel truly worthwhile.

Entertainment and Amenities: Staying Connected and Comfortable

When you're on a long-haul flight like London to Singapore, having a good entertainment system and useful amenities is key to making the time fly by. Singapore Airlines generally excels in this area, even in their Premium Economy cabin. The KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system is one of the best in the business. You get a large, high-definition touchscreen that's responsive and easy to navigate. The selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games is extensive and regularly updated. You’ll find Hollywood blockbusters, international films, classic TV series, documentaries, and a vast library of music across various genres. There are also often options for podcasts and audiobooks. The noise-cancelling headphones provided are usually of decent quality, helping you immerse yourself in the movie or music without too much background noise from the cabin. This is a huge improvement over the standard earbuds you get in economy. In terms of amenities, Singapore Airlines usually provides a premium amenity kit. These kits are often more substantial than those in economy, containing essentials like socks, eye mask, earplugs, toothbrush, and toothpaste. Some kits might even include lip balm or a small moisturiser. It’s these little extras that make a difference on a long flight. Blankets and pillows are also provided, and they are generally of good quality, ensuring you can get comfortable and rest properly. For keeping your devices powered up, as mentioned earlier, each seat has a USB port and a power outlet. This is absolutely crucial for keeping your phone, tablet, or laptop charged, especially if you plan on working or staying entertained throughout the flight. Free Wi-Fi is usually available, though the amount of free data can vary, and premium packages are often available for purchase if you need more extensive connectivity. The ability to stay connected, even if just for essential messages, is a big plus for many travellers. The overall package of entertainment and amenities in Singapore Airlines Premium Economy is designed to enhance your comfort and keep you occupied, making that long journey from London to Singapore feel much more manageable and enjoyable. It's the attention to detail in these areas that truly sets it apart.

Is It Worth the Upgrade? Final Thoughts on Premium Economy

So, the big question: is Singapore Airlines Premium Economy worth the upgrade from London to Singapore? For me, the answer is a resounding yes, under certain conditions. If you're someone who struggles with cramped spaces in economy, finds it difficult to sleep on planes, or simply wants a more comfortable and relaxed journey, then the extra cost is absolutely justified. The wider seats, significantly more legroom, and the added comfort of the calf and footrests make a massive difference to your physical well-being on such a long flight. You arrive feeling much more refreshed and less fatigued. The improved dining experience, the option to 'Book the Cook', and the generally better service add to the overall feeling of being well looked after. Plus, the enhanced entertainment system and the quality of the amenity kit contribute to a more pleasant travel experience. Think about it: you're spending a significant amount of time in that seat. Investing a bit more for considerably more comfort, better food, and better service can transform the entire trip from a necessary ordeal into a genuinely enjoyable part of your holiday. It’s the perfect middle ground. It’s not the extravagance of Business Class, but it’s a substantial leap up from Economy. If you can find a reasonably priced fare, or if you have a special occasion, or if you know you'll want to arrive in Singapore feeling as good as possible, then Singapore Airlines Premium Economy is a fantastic choice. It offers a tangible improvement in comfort and service that really pays off on long-haul routes. I'd definitely recommend it for anyone looking to enhance their travel experience without splurging on the most premium cabins. It truly delivers on its promise of offering a superior journey.