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Two of Asia's most highly respected airlines have recently revamped their First Class cabins. Here is what to expect. |
Singapore Airlines
When we asked world's movers and shakers in our The Experts section which airline they rated the most highly a staggering 99 per cent of them told us Singapore Airlines. Now that is a real rap considering these people are experts in the art of hospitality. Now Singapore Airlines has redesigned its already award-winning First Class cabin with new seats and suites. The cabin has been re-invented to pamper passengers with 'even greater levels of comfort, more privacy and increased stowage space for luggage'. The new pods feature outer walls that 'extend and embrace the passenger like a protective arm' . The new suites have been designed by BMW Group Designworks USA -and are as sleek as a luxury car interior. The seats are lined with fine leather and a new covering technique increases tension such that the upholstery remains smooth and pristine. Atmospheric lighting, personal storage cubbies and elegant tables add to the opulence. Beds are 35 inches in wide and 80-82 inches in length. The new design will make its debut thin September on the new Boeing 777-300ER on selected flights between Singapore and London. www.singaporeair.com
Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific Airways has 'refreshed' its already impressive First Class. This present First Class is seven years old now and the seven year itch means that London-based architects Foster + Partners, designers of the First Class Lounge, The Wing, have been brought in to revamp the product. The new design features glossy dark grey and warm-toned natural leather. The new side console and the interior of the suite are all wrapped in leather, with subtle linings, refined stitching and fewer panels for a more clean and sophisticated look. The seat fabric is custom-made with a specially selected combination of soft ,comfortable materials. A new 4.3" LCD touch screen controller allows passengers to easily recline the seat, adjust lumbar support and turn lights on or off with a simple touch . The new duvets are 500 thread count cotton and the thickness of the mattress has been increased. New sleep suits are organic cotton.
Input from Marco Polo Club members was incorporated to improve certain details of the product, including a more adjustable meal table, more room in the personal closet and additional space inside the console compartment for personal items such as phones and glasses. In the cabin sculptural copper and steel artworks by Maria Lobo and Linda Leviton have been installed . www.cathaypacific.com
Anne Paris 14/8/13 |