Welcome back! In this review, we’re stepping back on board a Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300ER in Business Class. But we are nowhere near Singapore today—we’re in Germany!
Today we are flying one of the industry’s famous “fifth freedom” routes, traveling from Frankfurt (FRA) to New York’s JFK. Singapore Airlines is routinely ranked as one of the best airlines in the world, and it remains one of our personal favorites. Join us as we share the entire experience, from the lounges in Frankfurt to the world-class food and service on board.
The Ground Experience: Frankfurt (FRA)
Our journey began at Frankfurt Airport, the busiest hub in Germany. Interestingly, we actually started our day at The Squaire, a massive office building connected to Terminal 1 that looks like a cruise ship stranded on land.
- Check-in: Singapore Airlines operates out of Terminal 1, Hall C. Desks open three hours prior to departure, with dedicated lanes for First, Business, and Premium Economy.
- Security: Business Class tickets include access to Star Alliance Gold Track security lanes. On this weekday morning, we sped through security and passport control with zero wait.
Lounge Options
Singapore Airlines doesn’t operate its own lounge in Frankfurt, but Business Class passengers can choose between two solid Star Alliance options:
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge: Located near gate B41, this lounge feels high-end and modern with a comfortable “living room” vibe. It features quiet relaxation pods, a shower suite, and a selection of hot breakfast dishes—including pretzels for one last Bavarian treat.
- Lufthansa Business Lounge: Located near gate B45, this space is incredibly spacious and features a kids’ area with video games. While the food was similar to Air Canada’s, the alcohol selection here was slightly better in terms of quality and variety.
The Verdict on Lounges: We give a slight edge to the Air Canada lounge for its cozy atmosphere, whereas the Lufthansa lounge can feel a bit sterile.
The Aircraft & Seat: Boeing 777-300ER
Our flight today, SQ26, is an 8-hour and 23-minute journey covering 3,846 miles. This specific aircraft features 48 Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 configuration.
- The Seat: At 28 inches wide, these are some of the widest Business Class seats in the sky. We were in the forward mini-cabin (seats 12K and 14K), which feels very private despite the lack of closing doors.
- The Bed: Unlike most seats that recline into a bed, the back of the Singapore seat actually folds forward to reveal a mattress topper. It creates a 78-inch fully flat surface.
- The Footwell Issue: Some travelers complain about the angled footwell, but we find that with the provided pillows, it’s easy to find a comfortable sleeping position. Even at 6’4”, Trevor had plenty of room.
Tech & Amenities
Singapore Airlines provides a great “soft product” even without traditional amenity kits given at the seat.
- Amenities: You’ll find slippers, a decorative pillow, and bedding waiting for you. An amenity kit containing Le Labo hand lotion, lip balm, and face mist is available upon request.
- IFE: The 18-inch HD screen is bright and paired with a touchscreen remote. The system features hundreds of movies and full seasons of TV shows.
- Wi-Fi: Free for Business Class passengers, though speeds were only “okay” during our flight.
Dining in the Sky
Dining on Singapore Airlines is a true event. They update their menus monthly, and you can use the Book the Cook service to pre-order specialty dishes before you fly.
- Canapes: Service began with the famous Singapore Chicken Satay. With a slightly spicy peanut sauce and a nice char, these are always a highlight.
- Lunch: Despite the morning departure, the main meal is lunch. We started with smoked salmon and moved on to our pre-ordered “Book the Cook” mains: Chicken Massaman Curry and Fried Tiger Prawns with garlic chili sauce. Both were restaurant quality.
- Dessert: We enjoyed lemon-lime sorbet and a fresh fruit plate. The crew even got creative with dry ice for the presentation!
- Second Meal: About two hours before landing, we had braised egg noodles with prawns. It was one of the best second meals we’ve ever had on a transatlantic flight.
Service: The Singapore Standard
What truly sets this airline apart is the service. Cabin Manager Christopher and our flight attendant Macy were professional, inviting, and incredibly proactive. Whether it was insisting on making our bed “perfect” for the camera or quickly bringing out a Hibiki Japanese Whiskey with warm nuts, the crew was flawless. They even refreshed the lavatories frequently, often after every single passenger.
The Verdict
We touched down at JFK Terminal 4 feeling refreshed. While no airline is perfect, Singapore Airlines continues to deliver an experience where the journey is just as much an adventure as the destination.
- Pros: Incredibly wide seats, world-class service, “Book the Cook” dining, and a very private cabin feel.
- Cons: The angled footwell can be polarizing for some, the app experience is a bit behind US carriers like Delta, and there is no dedicated Singapore lounge in Frankfurt.
Have you ever flown a Fifth Freedom route? Let us know in the video comments!
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