Singapore Airlines vs Cathay Pacific Business Class — Which Asian Carrier Wins?
Two of Asia's most prestigious carriers both fly from London Heathrow to their respective hubs — Singapore and Hong Kong. Both are outstanding. Here is how they compare for passengers flying premium from the UK.
1
Singapore Airlines
vs
3
Cathay Pacific
Specification Comparison
Category
Singapore Airlines
Cathay Pacific
Seat width
22 inches (new 787)
26 inches (Aria Suite)
Suite door
Yes (new 787/A350 business)
Yes (Aria Suite)
Bed length
78 inches
82 inches
Hub lounge
SilverKris Lounge SIN — world-class
The Pier/The Wing HKG — outstanding
LHR lounge
SilverKris T2
Cathay Lounge T3
Loyalty programme
KrisFlyer (accessible via Amex)
Asia Miles (accessible via Amex)
Average cash fare
~£3,800 return SIN
~£3,500 return HKG
Catering quality
Book the Cook — exceptional
Pre-order — excellent
Expert Verdict
Singapore Airlines edges ahead overall — the newer seat on the 787-10, access to Suites and First on A380 services, and the SilverKris lounges at Changi are world-class. Cathay Pacific is an exceptional alternative, particularly for passengers routing through Hong Kong.
Which is better — Singapore Airlines or Cathay Pacific business class?
Both are among the world's top 5 business class products. Singapore Airlines leads for catering (Book the Cook is exceptional) and the lounge at Changi. Cathay Pacific's Aria Suite seat is wider and their Hong Kong transit experience is superb. Choose based on your onward destination — Singapore for Southeast Asia, Hong Kong for Northeast Asia and China.
Does Singapore Airlines fly non-stop from London?
Yes — Singapore Airlines operates non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Singapore Changi on selected services. Some flights have a brief technical stop in Frankfurt or another hub. The non-stop service is approximately 13 hours.
What is the Cathay Pacific Aria Suite?
The Cathay Pacific Aria Suite is the airline's new business class product, featuring a sliding door, 26-inch seat width and direct aisle access from every seat. It was named the world's best business class seat by the Skytrax awards and is gradually being introduced across the fleet.
What is Singapore Airlines' Book the Cook service?
Book the Cook allows Singapore Airlines business class passengers to pre-order from an extended menu (not available onboard) including dishes like lobster thermidor, beef tenderloin and regional specialties. Orders must be placed at least 24 hours before departure.
Which airline has the best lounge at Heathrow for Asia-bound flights?
Singapore Airlines uses the SilverKris Lounge at T2. Cathay Pacific uses its own lounge at T3. Both are excellent — the SilverKris has a stronger food offering, while the Cathay Pacific lounge has a better bar and quieter atmosphere.
How much are KrisFlyer miles worth for a business class redemption?
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer miles are worth approximately 1.5–2.5p each when redeemed for long-haul business class. A one-way London to Singapore redemption costs approximately 72,000 KrisFlyer miles. Accessible via Amex Membership Rewards transfers.
Is it worth routing via Singapore or Hong Kong on the way to Australia?
Both Singapore and Hong Kong are excellent transit hubs for Australia. Singapore Airlines via Changi gives the best connection for Sydney and Melbourne with strong lounge facilities. Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong is competitive for Brisbane and Perth.
Can I use American Express points for Singapore Airlines business class?
Yes — American Express Membership Rewards transfer 1:1 to Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer. This is one of the most valuable uses of Amex points available to UK cardholders, giving access to the Book the Cook service, SilverKris lounges and one of aviation's best business class seats.