I thought it was time to update this:

- SQ are now expecting to get the first a/c in late November 2006. They are hoping to then have it in revenue service late December. First flight is now expected to be SIN-SYD, as much for 'political' reasons as anything else. SQ are currently pressing the Oz Government for fifth freedoms to fly SYD-LAX. Upon return to Changi the a/c will probably do SIN-LHR

- At the moment the intention is not to operate regional familiarisation flights with fare paying pax !!.

- As previously stated the first batch will have less than 500 seats, probably around the 480 mark, exact number still to be confirmed.

- They will all be 3 class a/c initially with Y, C & F. Going 4 class has been looked at and is continuing to be considered and as such they hope to make it so that it is relatively easy to convert to 4 class at a later date.

- All 3 classes will be brand new, with 3 different designers currently working on a new F, C & Y. No promises on what this will entail, including legroom in Y. VS did a couple of presentations of the UCS to SQ a while ago so Raffles may be similar. First is supposedly being created by a UK Yacht designer.

- There has been far more interest in the inaugural than expected. Priority will be given to Solitaire/PPS/KF Gold etc after the press & VIP's etc have been allocated.