Thank God for Singapore Airlines

Thank God for Singapore Airlines (SQ) was what one of our friends recently said when we brought him to the airport to take a long flight home. In the last 20 years, I have flown a dozenairlines to various destinations that demanded at least 6 hours flying time. In the past five years, I have paid more just to fly with SQ and even taken longer less direct routes even when it meantI had to book a hotel room in one city to catch another flight the following morning. Why? First, the airline has really led in improving its sytems, replacing its planes, and offering new amenities ahead of most other airlines.

I specifically like the new and clean planes and the constant review by flight staffto make sure the washrooms are up to snuff. And of course, inflight dining is not only edible but often tasty and carefully served. I don't feel like a dog being thrown a bone as in a few other Airlines I won't name! When you call the staff, they respond immediately...with a smile. I really like the note in the kitchen asking flight staff to talk softly. In some airlines, again, un-named, the whining about work and awkward bosses actuallly interferes with a decent sleep if you are parked near a kitchen.

SQ's hub, Changi Airport, is one of the most pleasant airports around. There are many places to sit, indoor and outdoor gardens, free internet and foot massager and lots of restaurants offering different kinds of food for different budgets. (Go up the escalator!!) SQ Lounges also offer the best food selection.

Check in is also easy. In fact, you can now print your own boarding pass. And keep those boarding passes when your destination is Singapore. They're worth a few freebies!

One drawback is, it only gives points to certain categories ofticket for Star Alliance members of which it is a part. So, when you book and those points are important to you, ask your travel agent if you get points with those tickets. It may beworth adding the few dollars.