SIA's new long-haul LCC to start with 400-seat B777s, plans 16-aircraft fleet within four years

Singapore Airlines' new long-haul low-cost carrier will initially operate a fleet of four B777-200s in a dense configuration accommodating about 400 passengers and incorporating a tight 10 seat-abreast economy class cabin. The new airline has begun the process of applying for an air operators' certificate (AOC) and is preparing to launch services around mid-2012 on medium and long-haul routes from its Singapore base. It plans to pursue a relatively high growth in its first four years, with its fleet slated to reach 16 aircraft in mid-2016.