SQ232 SYD - SIN A380-841 9V-SKC 11:15 - 17:40 (scheduled)
Hassle free check in with no waiting at the Suites or Business counters and only a short queue at Economy. But we were about 3 hours prior to departure. Our baggage was checked all the way through the Venice and boarding passes issued for the same. Express card provided which this time made quite a difference. The agent asked if I knew where the Silver Kris lounge was, when I replied "yes" he said "welcome back sir". 2 hours before departure (after doing some shopping for family in Europe) the small SQ lounge was still quite empty.
Newspapers, hot breakfast including English and Chinese options, beer, wine and limited spirits and a nice selection of cakes were all available. Free WiFi.
Although much smaller than the Air NZ lounge used by other Star Alliance carriers it still has good views of the tarmac if you get there early enough to secure a window seat. Just outside was TG 747/400 HS-TGW in Star Alliance colours which flew me back to Sydney on my last overseas trip.
Our A380 is parked on the opposite side of the East West runway waiting in the sun. The lounge had filled up by the time boarding was due to commence. Gate 61 is in a close cluster of 3 gates all with flights in various stages of boarding with the A380 queue in the middle. Couple that with a gate change for a VA flight from one side of the A380 queue to the other and a crowded gate area turned into a real bun fight.
Priority boarding was announced and the crowded gate area surged forward. Either priority boarding wasn't enforced, or there were so many business and star gold flyers it just seemed that way. But once on board there was a calm welcome, a friendly smile and an offer of champagne to provide a welcome change. Of course there was plenty of legroom.
Newspapers, magazines, hot towels offered. Menus, head sets and pillows were already in place. FAs took orders for a post departure drink using my name.
Take off to the South was a few minutes later then slippers and eye mask handed out using names - but no amenity kits. Post departure drink was poured in the galley and bought out on a tray (no trolley) and warm nuts provided.
