Singapore Airlines has announced it will recommence the longest flight in the world, non-stop between Singapore and New York, but with one slight adjustment: the route will be 33.41 km longer.
When the flight first took off in 2018 aircraft on it flew a distance of 15,344 km before landing at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, just across the Hudson River from Manhattan.
But when it resumes on November 9, it will fly just a little bit further and land at John F Kennedy International Airport.
The decision to change the airport it operates to and from for its New York services is due to demand for freight services between the two cities, as well as a growing number of passengers using the safe transit system at Singapore Changi Airport.
The new service will be the only non-stop air cargo link from the US northeast to Singapore, which is a popular Asia distribution hub for many major US-based companies.
The airline will use the most modern aircraft in its fleet, the Airbus A350-900, to fly the world's longest route. Inside, the aircraft will be fitted with 42 Business Class, 24 Premium Economy Class and 187 Economy Class seats.
Singapore Airlines is currently still operating non-stop services to Los Angeles. It will continue to review its operations to the US and assess the growing demand for air travel amid the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, before deciding to reinstate services to other points in the country.
The airline describes its non-stop ultra-long-haul services as the "bedrock" of its services in the US.
"Despite the challenging times for the airline industry, there are some early signs of optimism about a recovery in air travel," said Lee Lik Hsin, the airline's executive vice president commercial.
"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.
"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."
