Singapore Airlines Social Distancing Review

Singapore Airlines’ social distancing policy on board doesn’t commit to blocking seats between passengers, though it does separate passengers into transit and non-transit zones.

Due to regulatory requirements, passengers transiting in Singapore’s Changi Airport en route to another country are required to be separated from passengers entering Singapore.

Singapore Airlines says that a row of seats, an aisle, a galley, or the equivalent distance will separate passengers in the transit and non-transit zones. SQ requires that passengers remain in their designated seating area throughout flights.

On board social distancing remains a controversial topic in air travel at present, as some claim it isn’t possible and the risk of onboard transmission remains low if passengers wear face coverings. A handful of airlines commit to blocking middle seats on board into January 2021, though nearly all admit blocking seats is not sustainable in the long term as a business practice.

Singapore’s zoned seating policy is unique, and while it ensures distance between the two zones of passengers, it doesn’t appear to mandate distance between passengers in each zone.

Like most airlines, passengers are required maintain social distancing measures when boarding and deplaning from a Singapore Airlines flight and at the airport.

Related: Airlines Blocking Seats for Social Distancing

Singapore Airlines has a longstanding reputation for quality and cleanliness, and it promptly evolved its operations to address the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Since of May 10, all passengers and flight crew are required to wear a face mask on board. Flight attendants also wear either goggles or eye visors when interacting with passengers.

Further, passengers traveling to Singapore undergo basic health assessments before boarding. This includes a temperature check and verbal interview regarding one’s health.

Beginning in June, Singapore Airlines passengers are provided a care kit containing a surgical mask, sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer gel.

The airline is using enhanced cleaning for its aircraft and lounges, and exploring ultra-violet light cleaning for lavatories between flights (on the ground).

Singapore Airlines is allowing rebookings without change fees on bookings made through 28 February 2021. For rebookings made after 28 February 2021, one complimentary change is allowed. The best place to process changes and cancellations is on the airline’s web site request form.

A detailed summary of the airline’s health and safety policies on board is available in a PDF brochure called Caring for Your Well-Being (PDF).