“Remote working above the clouds – dream or nightmare?
In our series of reports, we show how airlines are increasingly expanding their in-flight Wi-Fi offerings and what business and -bleisure travelers can expect at airports and in lounges.
This time: Singapore Airlines.” Kai Böcking
Skytrax’s model student Singapore Airlines (SIA) was once again a game changer when it made Wi-Fi, to a great extent, free for every-one on board in 2023. Since 2025, the entire fleet has been online – on short-haul and long-haul flights, in all classes, with the same speed and the same minor challenges. More on that in later.
My trip to Frankfurt on the A380 starts off at one of the best airports in the world: Changi Airport in Singapore. Everything here is super-fast: check-in, fully automated passport control, and going online by clicking to confirm. It’s even faster in the airline’s new lounges, which have been completely revamped for business and first-class guests. Since I’m flying business, I have access to the new SilverKris Business Lounge in Terminal 3: incredible 3,000 square meters with huge shower rooms, live cooking stations, bars – and space to work. From high tables with charging stations and deep leather armchairs to separate single workstations that resemble business class seats, conference rooms, and sleeping facilities – everything is top notch!
I’m flying in the morning, so I decide on one of the high tables, connect my devices, and log in. Wow! In Germany, you would have to install fiber optic cables yourself to get a connection like this. Whether I’m streaming, working with large files, or using a video editing program, this Wi-Fi is unbeatable, even though the lounge, which can accommodate 700 guests, is well occupied and almost all frequent flyers have at least one device online.
Working on board
The 12-hour flight on the A380 from Singapore to Frankfurt takes off on time. The internet is provided by Sitaonair or Panasonic, both proven and popular systems used by many airlines.
After takeoff and an ordered gin and tonic, Wi-Fi is available from an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet. My comfortable workspace: a single seat by the window with a privacy screen facing the aisle, a full-flat bed, and an 18-inch monitor with over 1,000 entertainment options. Additionally, there are dimmable lights, USB and HDMI ports, and several charging options for devices (easily accessible). The award-winning in-flight service is available at any time.
But now it’s time for Wi-Fi. Business and First Class guests and SIA PPS Club members can log into the onboard network directly with their seat number. Economy and Premium Economy guests must be KrisFlyer members to use the free Wi-Fi. Those who are not members of the SIA mileage program can register during the flight – or pay between $4 and $16, depending on the duration of usage. Since every guest on board has the same level of connectivity, we share the connection speed and the associated minor hiccups. There’s no question that SIA’s Wi-Fi works well. But while you can surf at almost 80 Mbps in the magnificent lounge, only 4 to 6 Mbps remain in the air. That’s not bad for an airline, however it does limit your work. Stream-ing and WhatsApp calls (neither of which are allowed anyway) would not work, nor would online movie editing. It is however possible to: send and receive emails and PowerPoint presentations, as well as Messenger messages. I remain connected and can work. And I have time to enjoy the in-flight menu and relax a little as we fly over India and Pakistan. SIA is not allowed to offer Wi-Fi connectivity here.
Conclusion
Singapore Airlines is way ahead in many areas: service, seats, route connectivity, lounges, and most of the time free internet on all flights, regardless of length and destination. Blocked areas, bad weather, or simply no accessible satellites are not the airline’s fault. For me, the flight experience tops my hard work on this flight.
Kai Böcking …
… has previously written many flight reviews as a freelance author. His current focus on remote work suitability in the air is giving him new flight experiences, not only because, as a TV producer, he has high Wi-Fi requirements. Kai Böcking has been flying with SIA for years. He misses the legendary leather seats in business class, which offered space for two passengers to chat.
Work@Sky Singapore Airlines
SIA flies daily from Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich to Singapore, as well as from Frankfurt to New York. In addition to the in-flight entertainment program, flights on the Boeing 777-300 also offer Live-TV. -Passengers who are not KrisFlyer members or who are not flying business or first class must pay for internet access on board.
Prices: 1 hour: $3.99, 3 hours: $8.99, entire flight: $15.99, WI-FI via personal mobile access is also available, prices vary depending on the provider.
Suppliers: Sitaonair, Panasonic
Photos: © Singapore Airlines
