SQ B747-400 withdrawal thread

[maxmin]

Because I'd like them to.

[TerryK]

Because I'd like them to.

I am skeptical.

[maxmin]

What if I write a really nice letter?

But seriously, isn't it possible that they are putting 747 on SQ1/2 as demand rises, and at the same time, SQ11/12 could still be seeing low capacity so it gets a 777 ?

Anyway, I've been warned before to not mention any other AC than a 747 on this thread. So that's that!

[SQ LPP]

The withdrawal is happening as planned. But there may be a switch of equipment used for SQ1/2. Yes, yields might be the main reason. Presently SQ1/2 using 77W are solidly booked, while SQ11/12 have lighter load. It's not feasible at the moment to change SQ1/2 into A380 for several reasons (sorry this old man can't remember everything... ) Thus, by using 744 for SQ1/2, the loads and yields should reach a better optimum level. And having 77W for SQ11/12, it would optimize the usage for this particular route.
But remember, SQ decision makers always have different views and opinions. Lets wait and see.

[sumitsan]

From my experience of SQ11/12, SQ11 has been 65-70% full in Y on LAX-NRT sector, with seats next to you being empty, but on NRT-SIN, the loads were generally better. On SQ12, however, the loads on my flights are always full, even recently, with few op-ups due to overbooking. SQ1/2 had been 60-65% full when 744s were on that route, so as much as I'd like the idea, I doubt that route will see a 744 again, but it's possible. Either way, word is 77Ws freed from ZRH will replace 744s on SQ11/12. I think by Feb, SQ could be down to 4 744s in their fleet with SYD finally getting dwngauged permanently. Once SQ makes a decision about the FRA-JFK sector, the last of the jumbos will leave, which could be by March 2010 as previously planned.

[Lie_flat_seatlover]

I fly SQ 12 SIN-LAX on Oct 19th, and was surprised to find F full out of SIN and 8 of from NRT-LAX. Didn't look or ask about the loads in the back.

[SQTalker]

The withdrawal is happening as planned. But there may be a switch of equipment used for SQ1/2. Yes, yields might be the main reason. Presently SQ1/2 using 77W are solidly booked, while SQ11/12 have lighter load. It's not feasible at the moment to change SQ1/2 into A380 for several reasons (sorry this old man can't remember everything... ) Thus, by using 744 for SQ1/2, the loads and yields should reach a better optimum level. And having 77W for SQ11/12, it would optimize the usage for this particular route.
But remember, SQ decision makers always have different views and opinions. Lets wait and see.

Totally agreed with SQ LPP, when I recently from 744 on SQ12 / 11 in Sep & Oct, pictures below, IFS, other cabin crew, cockpit crew, all were talking about SQ2 / 1 will probably switch back to 744, mainly due to high demand on Economy Class, remember 77W Y Class only starts from door 3 onward, unlike 744 from door 2 onward...but who knows what SQ management think...

[maxmin]

(re - your pictures above)

A truly magnificent beast. In a different league from 777. If only they would retrofit the interior, I would be forever smitten.

[bmchris]

Refitting the interior doesn't make the plane quieter, more fuel efficient, and less costly to fly, which are important drivers.

[SQflyergirl]

Refitting the interior doesn't make the plane quieter, more fuel efficient, and less costly to fly, which are important drivers.

It can, if the refit saves weight.

[fuu99]

Would anyone have any idea which unit/s would probably be the last one/s to be retired? 9V-SPP and ~SPQ? They seem to be the youngest ones?

[SQ_SIA]

switching SQ1/2 back to a 747 would not be good for SIA, why upgrade to a new aircraft with new interiors and then downgrading it back to what they used to have (b747). Its like letting a kid lick a lolly pop but not actually giving it to them to finish.

[flyguy]

its more bec of load factor and capacity of the aircraft - as there were some time esp the last year or so when capacity drops that a 77W with 270 seats will do, then when it picks up - the 77W is not able to take on more pax - hence back to the 744 with its 380 seats which is more ideal - and the A380 is too big with its 480 seats.

[SQ_SIA]

- hence back to the 744 with its 380 seats which is more ideal - and the A380 is too big with its 480 seats.

i dont think SIA will be fitting the 747 with the new cabin interiors

[maxmin]

It's OK, of course I know they are not planning to refit, it's just my wishful thinking!