Arriving at Melbourne Airport in the evening for our redeye flight to Singapore, we were greeted by a snaking queue for check-in. For those departing out of Melbourne on Singapore Airlines, do note that the check-in desks will strictly open only 3 hours prior to departure, so queues tend to build up ahead of that.
Thankfully the queue for Business Class was more manageable, and not long after we joined the queue were we processed by the agent and issued our boarding passes.
Security was also quite efficient and we were through to the airside soon after. We had some time to visit some lounges but more on those in other posts.
For tonight’s flight to Singapore, we were happy that it was being operated by a B777-300ER. On this aircraft type, Business Class seats are configured in a 1-2-1 layout. Rows 11 and 15 offer additional legroom as these are bulkhead rows. We managed to secure seats in row 15 for this flight.
Boarding commenced on time, starting with First Class and then Business Class/PPS Club members. Once onboard, the lovely cabin crew showed us to our seats and we settled in. The inflight manager also informed us of the flight time on this sleeper service.
Cabins feel considerably roomier without the centre overhead compartments. This is a common feature in Singapore Airlines’ premium cabins on the B777 and A350.
Passengers were then offered the customary hot towels followed by a pre-takeoff beverage.
Boarding proceeded smoothly and before we knew it, all doors were closed and we pushed back from the gate. The taxi was relatively short and our flight departed Melbourne pretty much on schedule. Once we reached our cruising altitude, the crew came around to serve us warm nuts and our after takeoff beverage.
On sleeper services like this one, passengers can opt to dine either just after takeoff or before landing. We opted for the former. For my main, I had selected roast duck rice with steamed rice and vegetables from the Book the Cook menu.
To round off supper, I had a bowl of fresh fruit served chilled.
After supper, I proceeded to convert my seat to a fully flat bed to catch some sleep. As mentioned, it’s important to secure the bulkhead row seats in advance as they get snapped up quickly. The difference in legroom when in bed mode is much more obvious.
I gave the inflight entertainment a miss as I needed to get as much sleep as possible, given that I had to get ready for work after touching down in Singapore. The flight progressed smoothly and we arrived in Singapore slightly ahead of schedule.
For those who travel through Changi Airport often, I’m sure that you’re always impressed at the speed at which you can clear immigration, and how fast priority bags appear on the belt at the arrival hall. I’m always appreciative of the good service and efficiency of service at Changi Airport, home of Singapore Airlines.
