There’s something undeniably comforting about flying with an airline that treats you like more than just a seat number, and Singapore Airlines has long had that reputation. On a recent trip to Singapore with my 76-year-old aunt and 9-year-old nephew, we flew Singapore Airlines from New Delhi to Changi (SQ 401) and back (SQ 406), and honestly, it was one of the most seamless flying experiences we’ve had in a while.

Everything just felt right. The check-in was smooth, the boarding well-organised, and we immediately felt at ease once we were onboard. The crew was warm and attentive without being overbearing, the seats were thoughtfully designed with enough legroom, and the in-flight entertainment had something for all ages. It’s rare to find an airline that gets the little things right, and Singapore Airlines does.

In this blog, I’m sharing a closer look at what it’s like flying Economy Class with Singapore Airlines, especially when you’re travelling with family across generations.

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Departure from Delhi (SQ 401): Pre-Flight Experience with Singapore Airlines

We arrived at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) slightly over three hours before our flight, SQ 401 to Singapore. Singapore Airlines operates out of Terminal 3, and its check-in counters, usually around Zone E or F, are easy to spot with the airline’s signature silver and gold branding.

Check-in was smooth and efficient. The ground staff were courteous and helpful, especially considering I was travelling with both a senior citizen and a child. Our bags were checked in easily, keeping well within Economy Class's 30 kg check-in baggage allowance. Boarding passes in hand, we made our way toward immigration, which, as always, can take a little time depending on the crowd.

A quick tip: Singapore Airlines flights from Delhi generally run on time, but gate changes can happen, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the departure screens once you're through security.

Things to Note About Flying with Singapore Airlines Economy Class

Here’s a quick list of useful things to keep in mind when flying with Singapore Airlines, especially in Economy Class:

1. Generous Baggage Allowance

   • Economy passengers typically get 25–30 kg of check-in baggage, depending on the fare type, plus 1 carry-on bag (up to 7 kg).
     

2. Warm Hospitality

   • The cabin crew is known for attentiveness, grace, and genuine warmth. Expect hot towels, mid-flight check-ins, and thoughtful gestures—especially for kids and elderly passengers.
     

3. Meals Are Actually Enjoyable

   • Meals are well-balanced and served hot, with options for vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences. You’ll get a main course, salad, dessert, bread roll, and a drink (alcoholic options included).
     

4. Top-Notch Entertainment with KrisWorld

   • A vast library of movies, TV shows, music, and games. The touchscreen is responsive, and the content includes new releases, kids’ options, and international picks.
     

5. Wi-Fi Access

   • Wi-Fi is available on most aircraft, but it’s free only for KrisFlyer members (depending on tier and booking class). It's worth signing up—it’s free and comes with perks.
     

6. Comfortable Seats and Clean Cabins

   • The seat pitch is around 32 inches, and adjustable headrests, decent legroom, and a pillow and blanket are provided. The cabins are kept clean and fresh throughout the flight.
     

7. Family-Friendly Experience

   • Singapore Airlines is great for families. The crew often offers kids goodies like colouring kits, chocolates, and juice. Children’s meals can be pre-booked.
     

8. Efficient Boarding and On-Time Departures

   • Boarding is usually well-organised, with announcements made clearly. The airline has a solid record for on-time performance.
     

9. Transit Through Changi Airport

   • If you connect via Changi (T1, T2, T3), expect smooth immigration, great signage, and short queues. If you have a layover, don’t forget to check out Jewel Changi!
     

10. Book Seats and Meals in Advance

• You can select seats and special meals (vegan, gluten-free, Jain, etc.) while booking or managing your booking later.

Boarding Process & First Impressions: Flying to Changi with Singapore Airlines

1. Boarding the Aircraft

After clearing security, we headed to the designated gate for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 401. Boarding for the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner began roughly 45 minutes before departure, right on schedule.

The process was smooth and well-organised, with clear announcements and boarding by zones. Even with a mix of families, solo travellers, and elderly passengers like my aunt, everything moved at a calm, orderly pace, which I really appreciated.

2. First Impressions of the Aircraft

As we stepped into the aircraft, we were greeted with the signature warmth Singapore Airlines is known for. The cabin crew, dressed in their elegant sarong kebayas, welcomed each passenger with a gentle smile. The Dreamliner’s cabin felt modern and airy, with soft lighting and a neutral colour palette that immediately set a relaxed tone for the journey ahead.

My nephew was already wide-eyed with excitement, and honestly, so was I.

3. Seat Pitch and Comfort

The Economy Class cabin on the 787-10 is laid out in a 3-3-3 configuration. Our seats offered a comfortable amount of legroom (around 32 inches of pitch) and felt more spacious than many other airlines we’ve flown. Each seat came with a personal touchscreen loaded with a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and games - enough to keep both a 9-year-old and a 76-year-old happily entertained.

We also had USB charging ports, adjustable headrests, soft pillows, and blankets waiting for us at our seats.

4. Cabin Cleanliness and Amenities

The cabin was spotless. Everything from the seat upholstery to the tray tables felt clean and well-maintained.

Singapore Airlines clearly takes pride in its presentation. The in-flight headphones were decent, but I used my own for better sound quality. Before takeoff, the crew made multiple rounds to check on passengers, help with overhead luggage, and ensure everyone was settled in. Those little gestures, I feel, really set them apart.

In-Flight Experience with Singapore Airlines

1. Take-off & Cabin Atmosphere

As the Dreamliner soared into the skies, the cabin lights gently dimmed and shifted into a warm, ambient glow - Singapore Airlines clearly knows how to set the mood for a comfortable flight. 

The Boeing 787-10 has a quiet cabin and excellent air quality; you can feel the difference. It felt fresh, calm, and spacious, ideal for both drifting off and diving into the in-flight entertainment. My aunt settled in with a soft blanket, while my nephew was already flipping through movie options with childlike glee.

2. Cabin Crew and Their Service

The cabin crew was nothing short of lovely. Dressed in their iconic batik-print uniforms, they moved through the aisles with grace and purpose. Before take-off, they offered warm towels, which was such a refreshing touch, and checked in on my aunt’s comfort.

To my nephew’s delight, they brought him juice and a small packet of chocolates, instantly making him happy. Their attentiveness felt genuine, never rushed, and always with a smile. You could tell they were proud of the experience they were creating for passengers.

3. The Meal Service

Meal service began about 40 minutes into the flight, and as always with Singapore Airlines, it was presented with care. We had a choice between vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. I opted for the chicken and rice - served with a warm bread roll, butter, a side salad, a cup of flavoured yoghurt, and a decadent chocolate pastry.

The meal was piping hot, and the flavours were well-balanced and satisfying. My aunt chose the vegetarian option: paneer tikka with fried rice, which she found quite tasty. The meal felt wholesome, and the beverage service included everything from soft drinks to juices, tea, coffee, and even wine for those interested.

4. In-Flight Entertainment: KrisWorld

Singapore Airlines’ in-flight entertainment system, KrisWorld, is one of the best in the skies, and it didn’t disappoint. The touchscreen interface was crisp, fast, and responsive. The selection was extensive, with a mix of Hollywood blockbusters like Mufasa, Finding Dory, and The Mummy, along with international titles, regional cinema, and family-friendly picks.

My nephew ended up watching Paddington in Peru while I watched The Lion King. There were curated playlists, podcasts, games, and even guided meditation sessions. Honestly, it’s the kind of system that makes time fly.

Whether you're a movie buff or want something light to pass the time, there’s something for everyone onboard KrisWorld.

And here’s a bonus for KrisFlyer members: complimentary Wi-Fi is available onboard, depending on your membership tier and class of travel. Whether you want to send a quick email, scroll through Instagram, or share your in-flight moments in real-time, staying connected at 30,000 feet is surely a privilege!

Preparing for Landing in Singapore

About 30 minutes before our descent into Singapore, the cabin lights gently brightened, easing us out of our in-flight cocoon. A calm announcement reminded passengers to fasten seatbelts, return seats to their upright position, and stow away trays or belongings. The crew moved seamlessly through the aisle, collecting any remaining items and preparing the cabin for arrival - efficient, quiet, and always with a smile.

As the pilot mentioned our approach to Changi Airport, my 9-year-old nephew’s face lit up. He sat up straight, peered out of the window, and asked for the tenth time if the Jewel waterfall would be the first thing we’d see. His excitement was so pure, so infectious that it made me smile. He was already dreaming of the mist and magic of the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.

As we began our descent, I saw Singapore’s iconic coastline: a line of ships anchored peacefully at sea, and the city’s skyline gleaming in the distance.

Disembarking at Changi Airport, Terminal 1

We landed smoothly at Terminal 1 of Changi Airport. As the aircraft taxied to the gate, the crew made a final announcement, thanking us for flying with Singapore Airlines and reminding us to check our seats for personal belongings. Once the seatbelt sign went off, my nephew was already on his feet, backpack in place, ready to explore.

As we exited the plane, the flight attendants stood at the door, offering warm smiles and a gracious “Thank you for flying with us.”

The moment we entered Changi, the cool, fragrant air hit us - a welcome change after the journey. Efficient, green, and beautifully designed, Changi felt less like an airport and more like a gentle embrace.

Here’s a complete list of things to do in Changi Airport.

Final Thoughts on Singapore Airlines

Flying with Singapore Airlines on the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner was, quite simply, a reminder of what thoughtful air travel can feel like. From the moment we boarded to our smooth arrival at Changi, everything, from the service to the food, was delivered with quiet elegance and precision. The crew’s warmth stood out the most: not just professional, but genuinely caring, especially towards my elderly aunt and curious little nephew.

The KrisWorld entertainment system offered an excellent selection, the meals were fresh and satisfying, and the small gestures, like hot towels and mid-flight check-ins, elevated the economy class experience in Singapore Airlines.

If I had to nitpick, I’d only love to see expanded complimentary Wi-Fi for all passengers, not just KrisFlyer members. But honestly, that’s a small ask in an otherwise seamless journey.

Singapore Airlines continues to set the benchmark for service in the skies, and on this route, it’s a choice I’d happily make again. If you’re thinking of travelling to Singapore, I recommend booking Singapore Airlines. It would be an experience in itself.