Singapore Airlines to start operating flights with Boeing 737-800s in March

Aviation Updates Philippines – With the integration of SilkAir into its parent company Singapore Airlines, the Singapore flag carrier will start operating Boeing 737-800 aircraft as part of its fleet in March. 

 Image: Singapore Airlines Boeing 737-800 (Source: Singapore Airlines)

 The first of nine SilkAir Boeing 737-800s that will be transferred to Singapore Airlines will start operating as an SQ flight from Singapore to Phuket on March 4. As more SilkAir routes get transferred, the other 737-800s will be deployed on routes including to Brunei in March 2021. No specific date has been announced for the launch of the flights to Brunei using the 737s.

First announced in 2018, the full integration of SilkAir into Singapore Airlines will be completed during the fiscal years 2021 and 2022.

“The introduction of the SIA 737-800 NG will bring about a more comfortable and seamless travel experience for customers on our regional routes. Integrating SilkAir with SIA also allows us to be nimble and flexible in aircraft deployment, and supports our fleet and network growth strategy,” said Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Airlines.

Singapore Airlines' 737-800 will be configured to have 162 seats including 12 Business and 150 in Economy. The airline will offer what it describes as a “step up” for its in-flight offerings on regional routes.

The integration of the Boeing 737s to Singapore Airlines' fleet will be the first time the airline will use an aircraft from the 737 family since the 1970s. According to Planespotters.net, the airline previously operated Boeing 737-100s between 1972 to 1980. 

Along with the 737-800s, Singapore Airlines is also expected to take on SilkAir's Boeing 737 MAX jets. The first of six 737 MAX operated by SilkAir was recently flown from storage in Alice Springs, Australia back to Singapore.