First Class Showdown: Emirates vs Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines and Emirates boast arguably two of the best First Class products in the world. And as part of a recent round-the-world trip, our member Alanslegal was fortunate enough to take multiple First Class flights on both airlines!

To compare and contrast the experiences, a trip report has been written. So, which airline achieved the top spot?

We were very fortunate enough to fly around the world a few weeks ago – enjoying these two airlines, compare them head to head – and then come to an opinion, as to which airline is the best. And just for kicks, we have thrown in an ‘underdog’, Thai Airways, into the mix, just to compare and contrast, and see how it competes ‘up front’.

When introduced, the Singapore Airlines’ A380 “Suites” were the benchmark in First Class travel. The Suites product offers a private double bed in the sky, complete with Singapore Airlines’ famous food and top-notch service.

Making the most of this fantastic product, our member flew all the way to North America in Suites. For the first leg from Sydney to Singapore, everything seems to have gone off without a hitch.

Everything was perfect on this flight. Top crew, flawless service, drinks were always topped up, very good food, and the double beds – they were better than I expected. It was a proper bed (not like a seat converted to a lay flat position), totally flat, the pillow-top was super comfortable and when the doors were closed, our enclosed space made it feel like we weren’t even on a plane!

From Singapore to Tokyo, then finally Tokyo to Los Angeles, the service continued to exceed expectations. The food on board was delicious and the service impeccable. From arriving at the airport to leaving the airport at the destination, everything was seamless and stress-free. In fact, our member wishes that the final and longest leg to Los Angeles was two hours longer!

With such high standards upheld by Singapore Airlines, how does Emirates compare?

While the seamless Singapore Airlines experience began the moment the airport was reached, the Emirates First class experience began before even leaving the hotel! Emirates offers a complimentary chauffer service to customers in Business and First. Another unique aspect of the Emirates product are the prized on-board showers on the A380. The A380’s upper deck is also home to a popular bar.

However, it would seem that the Emirates experience didn’t quite live up to the excellent Singapore Airlines service. While a great product, the seat was narrower and the food served from New York to Dubai wasn’t perfect. Having said that, how will our member rate it overall?

As a final bonus, our member flew the final leg of the round-the-world trip in Thai Airways First Class. How does it compare?

This trip report makes for very compelling reading. Follow the full journey HERE.

The editor of Australian Frequent Flyer, Matt's passion for travel has taken him to over 70 countries… with the help of frequent flyer points, of course!
Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil & Kazakhstan. His interests include economics, aviation & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine.

You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @AFF Editor.
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