SilkAir to upgrade aircraft cabins ahead of merger with Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines Group announced (17-May-2018) SilkAir will undergo a "significant investment programme" to upgrade its cabin products as part of a multi year initiative, under which SilkAir will ultimately be merged into Singapore Airlines. The programme will comprise investment of more than SGD100 million (USD74.5 million) to upgrade SilkAir's cabins with lie flat seats in business class and seat back IFE systems in business and economy class to ensure closer product and service consistency with Singapore Airlines. Cabin upgrades are expected to commence in 2020 due to lead times required by seat suppliers, including time for certification. The merger between SilkAir and Singapore Airlines will only take place after a "sufficient" number of aircraft are fitted with the new cabin products. The airlines will transfer aircraft and routes, consistent with ongoing efforts to optimise the group network. Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong said: "Today's announcement is a significant development to provide more growth opportunities and prepare the group for an even stronger future". [more - original PR]