Singapore Airlines currently has excellent business class award availability between the U.S. and Europe. They operate flights from the U.S. to Europe that continue on to Singapore, allowing travelers to book trips just to Europe and back. This presents a hidden opportunity for those looking to make the trip.
The airline has historically offered strong award availability using their KrisFlyer miles, particularly when booking far in advance in business class on their ‘fifth freedom’ routes between the U.S. and Europe. Right now, there is particularly good availability on the New York JFK – Frankfurt route in business class, as well as some availability on the Houston – Manchester route. Singapore generally charges 81,000 to 87,500 KrisFlyer miles per person each way.
While Alaska Airlines used to offer good award space on Singapore, this is no longer the case. Air Canada Aeroplan does offer award space on Singapore, but not as frequently as Singapore does for their own members. Aeroplan charges fewer miles for these routes, with 60,000 miles each way for New York JFK – Frankfurt and 70,000 miles each way for Houston – Manchester.
Singapore Airlines offers a good business class seat with fully flat beds and direct aisle access, although legroom may be limited under the seat in front of you. The soft product, including food, service, and entertainment system, is excellent. Travelers can access United’s Polaris lounges from Singapore’s U.S. gateways, and can also include United domestic award seats in their booking using Singapore’s Star Alliance award chart if available. Connections in Europe and Asia can also be booked.