In 2007, Singapore Airlines celebrates its 60th anniversary. Since its establishment, Singapore Airlines has earned a reputation as an innovative market leader, combining quality product with excellent service.Singapore Airlines’ history can be traced back to 1 May 1947, when a Malayan Airways Limited (MAL) Airspeed Consul took off from Singapore Kallang Airport on the first of three scheduled flights a week to Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Penang. In 1963, the Federation of Malaysia was born and the Airline became known as Malaysian Airways Limited.

In May 1966, it became Malaysia-Singapore Airlines (MSA). Then, in 1972, MSA split up to become two new entities – Singapore Airlines and Malaysian Airline System (MAS). Singapore Airlines continued to thrive throughout the 1970s and a move to the new Changi Airport on July 1, 1981 was the beginning of a bright new era for the airline, and for Singapore. To this day, Singapore Airlines continues to set new standards both on the ground and in the air. Indeed, Singapore Airlines will be the first airline in the world to fly the Airbus A380.

Excellence in customer service has been integral to Singapore Airlines’ success. Superb inflight service is the cornerstone of its reputation for customer service and hospitality. Singapore Airlines has also developed a reputation as an industry trendsetter. From introducing free headsets, a choice of meals and free drinks in Economy Class in the 1970s to the comprehensive range of new generation cabin products across all classes in 2006, Singapore Airlines still leads the way.

A combination of exclusivity, innovation and style, the new First Class is set in an exquisite new ambience featuring an elegant seat product designed and furnished to offer the highest level of intuitive functionality and comfort. With just eight first-class seats in the B777-300ER aircraft, customers are assured enhanced privacy, personal attention, convenience and entertainment. With a width of 35 inches, the new seat product is almost 50 percent wider than any other conventional First Class seats in the industry. At night, this transforms at the touch of a button into a flat bed.

A la carte dining, the finest wines and champagnes, Salvatore Ferragamo amenities kit and even a Givenchy sleeper suit complete the finer touches of the new First Class. Singapore Airlines has one of the youngest fleets of any major airline, with an average age of six years seven months as at October 2006. The route network extends across 98 destinations  in 40 countries, including those served by Singapore Airlines Cargo and the regional airline subsidiary, SilkAir. In 2000, Singapore Airlines joined the Star Alliance network as part of its globalisation strategy and continual commitment to offer its customers improved services and benefits.

The Singapore Airlines Group has over 20 subsidiaries, covering a range of airline-related services from cargo to catering, and baggage handling to engine overhaul. This philosophy of investing in overseas joint ventures is the driving force behind Singapore Airlines’ development into a global group of aviation-related companies. Singapore Airlines recognises the importance of building strong relationships, not only with its customers and business partners, but also with the many communities it serves. Through corporate donations, sponsorships and other forms of support, Singapore Airlines provides backing to a wide range of community groups including charities, educational institutions, and arts and sports events.