Singapore Airlines Reviews Business Class Design After Color Backlash

Singapore Airlines unveiled a new Business Class cabin on November 6 as part of a S$2 billion long-haul travel enhancement program. Developed in collaboration with manufacturer Recaro and design firm Designworks, the upgrade features sliding privacy doors, automated seat recline, larger display screens, and improved charging options.

While passengers and public figures praised the ergonomic engineering and privacy features, the grey-and-yellow color palette drew sharp criticism from travel writers and content creators. Some critics described the ambience as cold, with others comparing the seats to "dental chairs."

The airline initially defended the design, stating that the colors and materials were carefully selected to create a "fresh, contemporary, and refined ambience" based on research involving over 5,000 experts, staff, and frequent travelers. However, CEO Goh Choon Phong later told staff at a townhall meeting that the company would review the feedback to determine what adjustments are feasible.