Singapore Airlines Opens A380 Restaurant Instead of Flight to Nowhere

Instead of offering a sightseeing flight over Asia, Singapore Airlines will offer flyers an alternative experience aboard their Airbus A380 aircraft. The airline will open a restaurant for one weekend only, as part of a limited run of experiences for grounded flyers.

Although they were rumored to consider a “Flight to Nowhere” like other airlines, Singapore Airlines is opting for a different kind of “travel experience,” starting with an Airbus A380 airframe. The carrier announced for one weekend, the aircraft would turn into a diner: Restaurant A380 @Changi.

One Weekend Only Experience Includes Pre-Lunch Tour and Gifts

On Oct. 24 and 25, 2020, the airline will convert their A380 into a restaurant, offering flyers different menus based on which class they are in. The options include the airline’s international cuisine, along with options from their Peranakan menu designed by Chef Shermay Lee.

The dining experience will come with the full airport experience, including passing through security and boarding the aircraft. The airline will also offer a pre-lunch tour of the A380 for a limited number of guests. In addition to eating the airline’s finest, flyers will also get a discount at the KrisShop duty free store and a limited-edition goodie bag. Those who attend in traditional heritage dress will also receive additional gifts. Reservations open on Oct. 12, 2020.

The restaurant is only one of three experiences offered by the airline to flyers who miss travel. In November, the flag carrier will offer a family-friendly insider tour over the school holidays. Kids can enjoy craft activities, while adults can choose to fly a full-size aircraft simulator or attend a wine tasting featuring the airline’s selections.

Finally, the airline will also offer an at-home dining experience, featuring 10 menus offered to first class and business class flyers, complete with wine or champagne. It’s unclear if the airline will allow the options to be shipped outside of Singapore. Orders for the in-flight meal option will open on Oct. 5, 2020.

Alternative Inspired by Frequent Flyers’ Favorite Activities

As an alternative to a “Flight to Nowhere,” leaders at Singapore Airlines say the experiences give flyers of all ages the best of their airline, without the need of leaving the ground.

“With COVID-19 drastically reducing the number of flights operated by the SIA Group, we have created unique activities that would allow us to engage with our fans and customers during this time,” airline CEO Goh Choon Phong said in a statement. “These experiences offer something for everyone – from frequent flyers who miss our world-class in-cabin products and service, to couples and families who want an exclusive dining experience, and parents who are after an enjoyable activity-filled day with their children during the school holidays.”

However, other airlines are moving forward with sight-seeing options for grounded travelers. A “Flight to Nowhere” operated by Qantas sold out in minutes, underscoring the demand for safe flights once more.

Feature image courtesy: Singapore Airlines