The world’s largest passenger airliner flew into the history books last month when Singapore Airlines’ first A380 made its maiden commercial flight from Singapore to Sydney.
The majority of the seats on the two legs of this flight were sold on eBay, the global online marketplace, with the proceeds of nearly S$2 million donated to charity.
Singapore Airlines first announced its intention to become an A380 customer in September 2000, with an order for 10 A380s and options on a further 15. Th at fi rm order was increased to 19 in July 2006. At catalogue prices, the commitment to the 19 firm orders, including engines and spares, is in the order of US$5.7 billion.
The aircraft is configured to carry 471 passengers with a range of nearly 7,100 nautical miles and is powered by four Rolls Royce Trent 900 engines. SIA will phase out its once-42-strong 747-400 fleet – already reduced to 20 over the past three years – to be replaced by 19 A380s and 19 777-300ERs.
The 777-200ER also has taken over many of the 747-400’s routes as the airline has increased frequencies to better meet demand. SIA has the world’s largest 777 fleet with 68.
Changi Airport spend some S$68 million on airport and airfield modifications and additional airport emergency rescue equipment to support the A380. Works undertaken include the installation of an additional fixed gangway and a third aerobridge arm at each of the 19 A380-compatible gates at Changi Airport.