Just a month ago, it was awarded the title of best airline in the world for the sixth consecutive year, an award received at the latest gala of the World Airline Awards Skytrax, known as the Oscars of tourism internationally. This is Singapore Airlines (SIA), which has just added a new milestone to its history: the inauguration of the Madrid-Singapore route via Barcelona, which will offer five weekly frequencies operated by an Airbus A350-900, a long-range variant considered among the most modern and efficient in the world.
The first flight departed from Adolfo Suárez-Madrid Barajas airport on October 27 at 10:00 AM, with a stop in Barcelona at 11:15 AM, continuing the journey to Singapore, where it landed at 8:25 AM the next day. Thus, flight SQ387 became part of the company's biography, which was founded in 1947 under the name Malayan Airways and later Malaysia-Singapore Airlines until the division of both names in 1972.
Much has changed since then, making the Spanish capital the fifteenth European destination the airline reaches, crucial for both the airline and its general manager for Spain and Portugal, Kevin Lee, who did not want to miss the takeoff of the inaugural flight, which was preceded by a special ceremony with awards, a photocall, and a lion dance performance, a great tradition in Southeast Asia. "The start of this route is key for Singapore Airlines' presence in the Spanish market, establishing a direct connection between the capital and our hub, opening a door to major destinations in Asia such as Bali in Indonesia, Phuket in Thailand, or Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia," the executive highlighted in a press meeting held in Madrid.
The airline's focus extends beyond Southeast Asia, as it also reaches northern Asia (Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and China) and the southwest Pacific (Australia and New Zealand). Notably, to commemorate the new route, the airline has launched limited-time promotional fares for flights departing from Madrid to certain Asian destinations (from Singapore to Jakarta, Manila, Penang, Hanoi, or Siem Reap, among others) in economy class starting from 618 euros (final price including taxes). This figure is not random, as it corresponds to the official ticket issuance code of Singapore Airlines and the official numbering that appears on all tickets.
For flights with a final destination of Australia, prices will start at 988 euros, referencing the number 8, which symbolizes fortune in various Asian cultures. Additionally, the airline offers the option to enjoy a six-hour stopover in Singapore to explore this surprising destination at no extra cost for all classes, including economy, premium economy, and business.
Is there anything else to celebrate? Yes, the improvement of in-flight entertainment with over 2,500 options, including movies, TV shows, music, and podcasts, along with high-speed connectivity and the state-of-the-art Krisworld system, which allows for streaming video, social media, games, and work on personal devices.