Restaurant A380: Singapore Airlines opens superjumbo for diners


Ian Oxborrow
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You may have heard of pleasure flights to nowhere and old aircraft being converted into hotels, but what about an Airbus A380 being turned into a restaurant?

Singapore Airlines has struck upon the idea, which is sure to provide a feast of entertainment for aviation enthusiasts.

The airline will open one of its superjumbos for two days – on October 24 and 25 – at Changi Airport for what it calls a "memorable dining experience".

It said diners will be able to choose their cabin class before savouring "signature international dishes" or the "best dishes from our Peranakan menu, designed by acclaimed Singaporean chef Shermay Lee".

A Singapore Airlines A380. The airline is inviting guests on board to eat rather than fly. Courtesy Singapore Airlines
A Singapore Airlines A380. The airline is inviting guests on board to eat rather than fly. Courtesy Singapore Airlines

The cost of the meals is yet to be confirmed, though there are six different packages. For instance, the all-inclusive first-class option includes premium vintage drinks, a first-class meal for two, a 22-piece tableware set with Wedgwood dining ware and Lalique crystalware, and Lalique amenities for two, including sleeper suits.

To work up an appetite, diners can also sign up to a tour of the "restaurant", with a behind-the-scenes look at areas that are usually private when the plane is being used for transport.

And, if the conversation runs dry, visitors can tune in to the in-flight entertainment and sit back and relax with a film.

The airline said that as part of its heritage showcase of cabin crew uniforms through the years, guests can receive a special gift by dressing up in their own traditional heritage wear, such as a sarong kebaya, cheongsam, saree, batik shirt or even kilt.

The carrier is also offering a service whereby a private chef will deliver, reheat, plate and serve customers in their homes.

A380 is on its way out

The last A380 fuselage was pictured rolling off the assembly line last week at Airbus's manufacturing station in France.

Having built the A380 at the plant in Toulouse for 15 years, production is coming to a halt with the final jet headed for Emirates.

Airbus announced the end of the line for the A380 last year, saying it would stop production by 2021, although the coronavirus pandemic has brought the end forward slightly as airlines around the world grapple with a lack of demand.

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