Our Globetrotters are reviewing 30 of the world’s leading international airlines for their family-friendliness. Our reviews cover the airline’s policies and service offerings that the average family will deal with when flying standard economy class. For more details on the Globetrotters reviews and ratings referenced, please see the lead article.
Singapore Airlines is consistently seen at the top of airline league tables and has received many airline awards over the years. They regained top spot at the 2018 Airline Awards and have been kicking around in the top 3 for many years – in all cabin classes. Synonymous with impeccable service, let’s see how they stake up for family flyers.
Code: SQ
Base: Singapore
Alliances: Star Alliance
Skytrax Rating 2018: 1
JACDEC Safety Rating 2018: 14
Singapore Airlines Pregnancy Policy
Uncomplicated single pregnancies can travel unrestricted up to 36 weeks, however from 29 weeks you will need to fly with a medical certificate dated not more than 10 days before the first flight. In the case of uncomplicated multiple pregnancies, you will be travel restricted from 32 weeks. There is no explanation as to what travel restricted means; if flying after these dates is essential, you would need to check with the airline whether special medical clearance can be provided.
Newborns on Singapore Airlines
Infants are not accepted within 48 hours of delivery and they do not recommend flying within the first 7 days after delivery.
Infants (under 2 years) on Singapore Airlines
They can provide you with infant amenities including diapers, bibs, bottles, wipes onboard but they recommend you bring your own as they only carry limited supplies and they may not meet your requirements.
If travelling with more than two infants (<2 years) you must contact the airline before booking.
Baby Bassinets
There are a limited number of bassinets available and these must be pre-booked. Their dimensions are 76.8cmL x 29.8cmW x 15.8cmH, with max weight 14kg.
Children (2-11 years) flying on Singapore Airlines
Booster seats are not permitted but approved car seats are allowed (from 6 months to 3 years) and FAA-approved harnesses are allowed (they note that these do not fit in business/first class seats). Manufacturing standards and instructions must be passed to ground crew. Car seats cannot be used in emergency rows or the rows immediately before/after.
If you are lucky enough to be travelling in business or first, children are offered a special “Yummy!” menu where they can select the meal of their choice at least 24 hours prior to the flight. Children’s meals in economy must also be pre-ordered at least 24 hours in advance.
All flights come with the usual in-flight entertainment systems including a special selection of movies and TV shows for young ones.
Can you use a Bed Box or similar sleeping device on Singapore Airlines?
Singapore Airlines are one of the few who DO allow the use of Bed Box or other sleep cushion aids to make the flight go smoother. They have some great guidance here on the correct usage of these sleep devices.
Not sure what these are? See our full review here of the Bed Box by Jet Kids and similar comparison products.
Unaccompanied Minors on Singapore Airlines
Children from 5 to 12 years old can fly unaccompanied; you must apply for special assistance and complete a UM Handling form in advance (bookings can’t be made by Web).
There is also an option to send children aged 12-18 years as UM’s but you must sign a waiver.
Baggage Allowances on Singapore Airlines
On most routes, there is a weight allowance of 23kg for adults and children’s tickets and 10kg for infants. In addition, a fully collapsible stroller or pushchair and carry-cot or car seat may be checked in without charge (I read this as meaning two items per child).
On US routes the allowance is increased to 2 x pieces for adults and children up to 23kg each and 1 piece for infants. Brazil routes are allowed 2 pieces x 32kg, infants 1 piece. The same infant equipment rules apply.
Hand luggage you are allowed 7kg each in Economy, as well as infant food and amenities, the total weight of which should not exceed 6kg.
On code-share flights, they extensively point out that you should check who is the “most significant marketing carrier” as it is their baggage limits that will apply, this should be stated when you book tickets.
Frequent Flyer Programs
Singapore Airlines operates the KrisFlyer air miles program. Children from 2 years old can be joined as members and points can be earned on Singapore Air, Silk Air as well as a long list of partner airlines in the Star Alliance as well as a few additional carriers.
A member can nominate up to five individuals to be in their Redemption Group; this means you can purchase tickets in the name of someone in your redemption group using your points but it does not appear that you can group your family points within the redemption group.
Our Globetrotters View
I have not flown with Singapore post-children but their service in the past has been exemplary. Otherwise, their family policies feel fairly run-of-the-mill and what you’d expect for a top class airline. Their services and emphasis from an outsiders perspective certainly seem to be focused on their business and first customers with little out-of-the-ordinary offered in economy.
When it comes to transiting via Changi Airport in Singapore though, it almost makes you want to book a layover. They really have the family in mind when it comes to transit passengers. They have amazing indoor playgrounds, the Butterfly Garden and the Enchanted Garden, as well as the Family Zone and Entertainment Deck.
For a more detailed review on Singapore Airlines, you can pop on over to Four Around the World who have a great article on what it’s like to fly with a toddler, as well as Toddlers on Tour for a review of the Perth to Singapore service.
Looking for what to do when you get to Singapore? Look no further than this really detailed guide from Mum on the Move with 50+ ideas on keeping kids happy in this small but mighty country!
There’s also a great family hotel guide for different budgets here, or see our review of the trendy but family-friendly W Singapore – Sentosa Island.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page should be used as a guide only. It has been gathered from public sources and correct at the time of going to print (May 2015 – updated August 2018). Please consult the airline’s own website before booking any family travel with this airline. This review is not an endorsement of Singapore Airlines services and I am in no way affiliated with the airline.
Have you flown pregnant or with infants/children on Singapore Airlines? Do you have a review or advice to share with travelling families? Have you tested the family facilities at Changi Airport with a first-hand report?
Before you go! Have you seen our guide on what to pack for family air travel or how to get the airport with kids?
© Our Globetrotters