Singapore Airlines has announced it will launch non-stop flights between Singapore and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York from 9 November 2020, seeing the return of the world’s longest passenger service.
The route has been suspended since 25 March 2020, when demand for international travel took a nosedive due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, within weeks, the airline will revive its record-holding non-stop Singapore to New York route, and has said services will now fly directly into JFK for the first time.
Historically, Singapore Airlines’ services to New York flew into Newark Liberty International Airport based in New Jersey, however the carrier will now offer passengers the ability to fly direct into NYC.
Perhaps more importantly in today’s conditions, the airline anticipates its new JFK service will offer greater support to US-based industry and businesses through its extensive cargo focus and capacity.
The airline intends to utilise its Airbus A350-900 long-range aircraft for the route, which will see 42 business, 24 premium economy and 187 economy passengers, as well as up to 16 tonnes of cargo, soar non-stop between Singapore and the Big Apple.
Singapore said it anticipates “significant cargo demand” from a wide range of industries based in the New York metro area, including those from the pharmaceuticals, e-commerce and technology sectors.
According to SIA, the new Changi-JFK service will provide the only non-stop air cargo link from the US north-east to Singapore.
“Operating these flights between Singapore and New York’s JFK International Airport represent an important step in the rebuilding of our global network,” said Lee Lik Hsin, executive vice president commercial for Singapore Airlines.
“Non-stop ultra-long services are the bedrock of our services to the key US market. We will continue to ramp up existing services and reinstate other points as the demand for both passenger and cargo services return.”
Lee noted that despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 crisis, the industry is seeing early signs of optimism for a recovery in demand for air travel.
“Our customers say that they are increasingly confident about air travel, given the robust health and safety measures that are in place, as well as testing regimes to protect them and our staff. This optimism is also driven by recent moves by countries such as Singapore, which are easing the restrictions on both transit and inbound passengers in a safe and gradual manner,” he said.
“The fundamental importance of air travel remains unchanged despite the pandemic. Air travel can bridge long distances and physically bring together families and friends, support both business and leisure trips, and has a direct impact on economic growth and job creation.
“That gives us confidence about the medium to long-term prospects for the industry.”
