Hello, travelers! Chris here, excited to share my review of a recent first-class experience aboard Singapore Airlines flight SQ631 from Tokyo-Haneda to Singapore on the Boeing B777-300ER. Having previously flown business class on the same route, I was eager to see how first class would compare. This somewhat short, six-hour journey provided just enough time to evaluate the offerings and enjoy the luxury. Let’s dive into the details.

By the way, for the full video review, you can watch it on our YouTube channel or just click the embedded video below:

Flight Overview

The flight path took us over Taiwan, near the Philippines and Vietnam, before reaching Singapore. Though six hours is relatively brief for a first-class flight, there was still plenty to experience. Upon check-in, I admired the Boeing 777-300ER—Singapore Airlines’ trusted workhorse with 23 units in service.

SQ631 route from Tokyo-Haneda to Singapore (Source: Flightstats.com)

Our plane for today, Singapore Airlines’ B777-300ER (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Cabin and Seat Configuration

First-class on this aircraft is impressively private, featuring only four seats in a 1-2-1 layout. For solo travelers, window seats offer maximum seclusion. Since I was traveling with my wife, we chose the middle seats (1C and 1D). The seats are notably wide, luxurious, and spacious, ideal for relaxation or working.

This plane only has 4 First Class seats in a 1-2-1 configuration (Source: aerolopa.com)

Seat Features:

Premium leather with diamond-stitching, reminiscent of high-end automobiles
Generous storage, including space under the footrest and side compartments
Multiple charging ports (USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, universal power) and a vanity mirror
Adjustable reading lamps and dual headphone jacks for added convenience

Despite minor nitpicks about the seat’s width and slight movement when seated, the overall comfort was exceptional.

My seat for this flight, 1C (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

The seat is impressively wide and has this brown stitched leather pattern (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

There is almost too much space on your sides - a true luxury problem (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

I admit, I’m a sucker for these leather pillows (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

You will have plenty of storage space around the seat, including under the Ottoman which could easily fit my shoes, my 20l Peak Design Everyday Backpack and a duty free shopping bag (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Next to your IFE and ottoman, you have a little closet that can store your belongings. I always appreciate the peace of mind when my passport can be stored somewhere that has a closable door (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

There are multiple charging ports around your seat, including this ominous iPod charging port - has anyone ever used this? (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Around your IFE you can find a universal power plug, as well as an HDMI port to connect a device to the big screen (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

All functions of your seat can be easily managed through this control panel (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

There are reading lights on both sides of your seat. It’s a great idea to have the audio connector for your headphones on both sides of the seat, allowing you to switch to whichever is most comfortable to you (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Pre-flight and Initial Impressions

As expected in first class, the experience began with a glass of champagne. Singapore Airlines offers three premium options, all served with a sense of ceremony. The crew’s attentive service set a positive tone for the flight.

For champagne, you have the choice between Krug Grande Cuveé, 2013 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne, and Champagne Henri Giraud MV19 Aÿ Grand Cru. Each bottle retails for around $200. From December 2024 forward, Singapore Airlines is supposed to add Louis Roderer Cristal champagne on some routes.

Starting the flight with a glass of Krug champagne (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Singapore Airlines serves 3 fantastic champagnes in First Class (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Entertainment and Connectivity

The inflight entertainment system is excellent, featuring an extensive range of movies and TV shows. The screen, though not the latest 4K resolution, was sufficient. A handheld controller operated the system seamlessly. I also tested the complimentary inflight Wi-Fi, which performed adequately, albeit with occasional connectivity issues.

The screen is not the biggest or the newest, but I didn’t notice any issues with the brightness or resolution on my flight (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

The screen takes up a portion of the black head board. There is also a little shelf to put things on - neat! (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

As the screen is not a touch screen (and it’d be too far away from your seat anyway), you use this console in your seat to control the IFE. It also shows your flight information and can be used for games, etc. (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

SIA’s movie selection is plentiful and you can continue watching your movies where you left them of on other flights if you log in with your Krisflyer number (and continue on another SIA flight, of course) (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Dining Experience

Dining in first class is an event, starting with a satay amuse-bouche—delicious skewered meats with peanut sauce. The main meal followed with options selected via the Book the Cook service. I chose a wagyu beef steak, which, though flavorful, was slightly overdone. My wife’s lobster dish was more satisfying.

You get started of with some nuts (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Next are Satay sticks, a local specialty (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

The starter is caviar with condiments (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

I used the “Book the Cook” to order a wagyu steak, which was good but not great (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

My wife was very happy with her choice of lobster (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

The dessert options included fruit, cheese, and ice cream. I opted for the fresh mango, a treat rarely found on flights. A special touch came when the crew, informed of our upcoming wedding, surprised us with a fruit platter, adorable bear figurines, and a signed card—a heartwarming gesture.

I loved the fresh mango as a dessert option (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

We also received a little dessert and cute SIA bears when the crew heard that we were traveling for our wedding (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Amenities Kit and Pajamas

Singapore Airlines’ first-class experience is complemented by thoughtful amenities that add luxury and comfort to the journey. Passengers are provided with a premium amenities kit by the renowned brand Lalique, containing high-quality skincare products and toiletries. The kit is available in versions tailored for men and women, ensuring passengers have items suited to their needs.

The “men” or rather unisex version of the Lalique amenities kit (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

The more “feminine” version of the Lalique amenities kit (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Additionally, the airline offers comfortable pajamas, an eye mask, socks, and slippers, all waiting at the seat upon boarding. These touches not only elevate the overall comfort of the flight but also contribute to a restful and indulgent experience, making long-haul journeys more enjoyable.

Pajamas, slippers, and an eye mask await you at your seat (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Bed and Comfort

The cabin crew transformed my seat into a bed with layered bedding, plush pillows, and blankets. At 1.9 meters tall, I found the space comfortable, if just barely. The pillows were particularly luxurious, making it easy to relax or nap. Pajamas, an eye mask, and the Lalique amenity kit added to the premium feel. The bathroom was compact but spotless, stocked with quality amenities.

Doesn’t this look inviting? (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

The crew is helping to prepare the bed (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

The bedding is pretty comfortable, with 2 layers of a mattress topper on top of the already comfortable seat (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Given the lack of closing doors for your seat, the privacy is a bit reduced. However, you will only ever have your one seat neighbour or the crew walk past your seat (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

You will find Lalique products even in the restrooms (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

It’s extra nice to wake up with a fresh cappucino in hand (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Privacy in the Cabin

The first-class cabin on Singapore Airlines’ Boeing 777-300ER offers a commendable level of privacy with only four seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration. While the open design means there aren’t fully enclosed suites like on some other airlines, the limited number of passengers ensures a sense of exclusivity. The middle seats, chosen for traveling with a companion, are separated by a divider that enhances personal space when raised.

This partition can be raised in between the middle seats (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

You have to lean forward quite a bit to even catch a glimpse of your seat neighbours at the window seats (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Window seats provide the best experience for solo travelers seeking more seclusion. Although the cabin layout means some visibility of neighboring screens and occasional foot traffic from crew members, the overall ambiance feels private and peaceful, with minimal disruptions.

Service Quality

The service was outstanding, with two crew members attending just four passengers. This allowed for personalized, unobtrusive attention. The crew anticipated needs and interacted thoughtfully, enhancing the overall experience. I had previously heard from friends that they did not like the service on board of SQ flights as it seems too “robotic” and professional but cold - I cannot judge this off 1 flight but have to say that the two crew members struck just the right balance between being professional and being personal.

We enjoyed our chats with the 2 crew members in the first class area (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

These small gestures are what makes a flight memorable (Source: UnmatchedVoyages.com)

Conclusion

Despite being a shorter flight, the first-class product on Singapore Airlines’ Boeing 777-300ER impressed me with its spacious seating, attentive service, and attention to detail. While there’s room for improvement in the main course selection, the luxurious touches and exceptional crew made the experience memorable. Would I recommend splurging on first class for a short flight? Perhaps not every time, but for a special treat, it’s worth considering.

If you’ve flown this route in first class, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Until next time, happy travels!

REVIEW: Singapore Airlines First Class on the B777-300ER - not the most private, and yet…