I’ve flown U.S. to Bangkok probably 15 times over the last 25 years. Almost alway through Narita because of price. I always flew economy, except 4 years ago, I got a $666 mistake fare on Hong Kong airlines in business class. In March, when I saw Singapore Airlines in economy got $674, I jumped on it I figured that airfares would only be going up as Covid restrictions loosened and higher gas prices. Singapore Airlines reputation also figured into my decision. Plus, I have a house in Chiangmai that I replenish every time I come over and use the 2 bags at 23 kilos and carry on. It looks like many airlines, like United, are switching to only 1 checked bag for free in economy. So, I bought the ticket on Singapore and haven’t regretted it yet. I never change any details of the flight or cancel and am hoping that continues on this flight. I did realize that seats were not given in economy for free, so I paid $62 for standard seats on the 4 segments. About 3 weeks ago, I tried to change the seat on the BKK to SIN segment, in standard to another standard. About a week later, I checked and there was no seat selection for that segment. I called Singapore in the U.S., explained the situation, and after about 30 minutes on hold and the representative talking to her superior, I got my original seat back. I won’t be playing around with seat assignments anymore.
I think, at least in economy, the days of 2 free checked bags are almost over on transpacific flights. Probably meal service and alcoholic drinks will be charged ala carte. I’ve got 4 more years until I retire and move to Chiangmai permanently, so I probably have two more flights after September. I hope that it remains a somewhat pleasant experience for the near future.