I boarded Singapore Airlines flight SQ835 from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, bound for Singapore. As I headed to the gate, I was filled with anticipation to experience the Business Class of Singapore Airlines, widely considered one of the world’s best. I had high expectations for what the approximately 5-hour and 25-minute flight would offer.
First Impressions: Exceptional Elegance from the Start
Stepping into the cabin, the Singapore Airlines A350-900 Business Class exceeded my expectations. The 42 seats, arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, all offer direct aisle access, allowing for easy movement regardless of whether you are in a window or center seat.
The seat itself features a wide shell design that feels like a private sanctuary. Despite the absence of a sliding door, the high partitions provide enough independence that I was barely aware of the passengers next to me.
Seat Details: The Pinnacle of Comfort
Looking around the seat, I noticed thoughtful details everywhere. The gold-toned side panels added a touch of luxury, and the spacious ottoman provided ample room to stretch out my legs and relax. Seat control buttons were neatly tucked under the armrest, preventing accidental adjustments. The signature wide backrest of Singapore Airlines is generous enough to accommodate two adults.
However, converting the seat to a full-flat bed requires manually flipping the backrest forward, which necessitates assistance from the cabin crew. This is a point that might divide opinions.
In-Flight Entertainment
Singapore Airlines’ renowned KrisWorld entertainment system did not disappoint. The large personal monitor offered crisp picture quality and a wide variety of content. I spent a relaxing time watching movies, and the flight of over 5 hours never felt boring.
The sliding storage compartment next to the monitor is optimized for storing passports or smartphones, and the intuitive seat controller and strategically placed lighting perfectly catered to user convenience.
Alongside the KrisWorld controller on the side panel, there were charging ports and storage for personal items. Being able to charge my smartphone and laptop simultaneously made for a perfect environment for business travelers.
A Note on Amenities
It is worth noting that for this route (Shanghai – Singapore), which is under 6 hours, full amenity kits are not provided. Only slippers are offered after boarding.
Dinner Service
The dinner menu offered a variety of choices, including local traditional dishes available on flights departing from Shanghai. While Singapore Airlines Business Class passengers can typically use the ‘Book the Cook’ service to pre-select main courses, unfortunately, this service is not available on the Shanghai – Singapore route.
Signature Singapore Satay
Meal service began after takeoff. The first item served was Singapore Airlines’ signature dish: Singapore Chicken Satay.
The rich flavor of the spicy peanut sauce was truly exquisite from the first bite. The well-grilled satay skewers were tender, and the cucumber and onion accompaniments stimulated the appetite. The savory peanut sauce combined with the smoky charcoal aroma, paired with a glass of champagne, pleasantly eased the tension of the flight.
Appetizer
The salad served first was visually stunning, garnished with fresh mixed greens and edible flowers. The grilled scallop and soba noodle salad was appetizing, thanks to the tangy Ponzu dressing. The neat plating was comparable to that of a fine dining restaurant.
Main Course: Slow Roasted Lamb Leg
I chose the Slow Roasted Lamb Leg for my main course. Served with Harissa sauce, the lamb was cooked tender enough to be easily cut with a fork and had no gamey odor. The portion size was quite generous, though personally, the flavor profile wasn’t to my exact taste, so I might try a different option next time.
The accompanying vegetable mix of broccoli, carrots, and zucchini maintained a crisp texture, and the chickpea stew was savory.
Dessert: A Sweet Finish
The meal concluded with a cheese plate and fresh fruits. Various cheeses (Cheddar, Brie, etc.) were beautifully plated alongside dragon fruit, papaya, watermelon, grapes, and blueberries. Crackers and dried fruits were also provided, making for a perfect pairing with the cheese.
Haagen-Dazs chocolate ice cream was also on the menu, but I was already quite full, so the fruit and cheese were satisfying enough.
Overall Verdict: 5 Hours Felt Like 5 Minutes
The approximately 5.5-hour flight from Shanghai to Singapore passed in the blink of an eye. Watching movies in a comfortable seat, enjoying a wonderful meal, and receiving attentive service whenever needed made me lose track of time.
The spacious and private seat, Michelin-level in-flight dining, state-of-the-art entertainment system, and above all, the sincere service of the crew combined to create a perfect flight experience.