Both Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines are top-tier airlines with strengths in different areas. Qatar Airways stands out for its punctuality, baggage handling, and in-flight entertainment, while Singapore Airlines is recognized for its customer service and value for money. The choice between them depends on individual priorities and preferences.
| Attribute | Qatar Airways | Singapore Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| On-time arrival performance | Ranked among the most punctual airlines globally. 85.11% on-time arrivals in 2023, 82.83% in 2024. 84.07% on-time departures in 2023. Completion factor of 99.85% in 2023. | 78.67% in 2024, ranking third in the Asia-Pacific region. Cirium defines 'on time' as arriving/departing within 14 minutes and 59 seconds of the scheduled time. |
| Baggage handling efficiency | Best-in-class baggage performance for 2022/23, with a low mishandling rate of 0.72 items per 1,000 passengers. Handles over 57 million baggage items for more than 35 million passengers annually. | Aims to return mishandled baggage within 15 hours for short international flights to/from the US and 30 hours for longer flights. Compensates for reasonable expenses due to delayed delivery. KrisFlyer Elite Gold members get priority baggage handling. |
| Cabin comfort (seat pitch, legroom) | Economy class seats on long-haul flights are somewhat narrow, but offer a decent pitch and recline. Some reviewers have found the legroom to be generous, even in economy class. IFE boxes may intrude into the footwell, compromising leg space. | Varies depending on class and aircraft. Economy legroom can be minimal. Premium Economy has a standard 38-inch pitch. Some seats may have minimal padding. Attention to lighting, temperature, and noise levels. |
| In-flight entertainment options | Oryx One system provides up to 8,500 entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music, and games. Updated monthly with fresh content. Many aircraft have large, high-definition touch screens. | KrisWorld system with over 1,900 entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music, games, live TV, e-books, and audiobooks. AVOD, interactive maps, real-time flight information, and personalized recommendations. Screen sizes vary by class. |
| Food and beverage quality | Excellent dining experience in all classes. Complimentary meals, snacks, and beverages in economy. Multi-course menus with premium wines and champagnes in Business and First Class. Serves sparkling wine in economy class. | Wide array of food options, including regional dishes. 'Popular Local Fare' program. Business and First Class passengers can pre-order meals. |
| Customer service responsiveness | Warm, attentive, and caring cabin crew. Awards for best cabin service. Some reviews indicate issues with call center accuracy and inconsistent service. | Aims to acknowledge complaints within 30 days and provide a substantive response within 60 days. Customer service plan for cancellations, diversions, or delays. Actively seeks customer feedback. |
| Check-in and boarding process efficiency | Smooth and well-organized check-in process, especially at Hamad International Airport. Priority boarding available for different classes and frequent flyers. | Online or mobile app check-in up to 48 hours before the flight. Passenger Reconciliation System (PRS) at Changi Airport. Boarding starts 40-45 minutes before departure. Priority boarding for Business Class, PPS Club members, and passengers needing assistance. |
| Lounge access and amenities | Al Safwa First Lounge and Al Mourjan Business Lounge are considered among the best. Lounges feature amenities such as Wi-Fi, shower facilities, business centers, and dining options. Privilege Club members have access to exclusive lounges. | KrisFlyer Gold Lounges (warm food, snacks, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi) and SilverKris Lounges (hot meals, full bar, rest areas, showers). The Private Room for First Class and Suites passengers. Access based on class, status, or membership. |
| Frequent flyer program benefits | Privilege Club allows members to earn and redeem Avios on flights and with partner airlines. Benefits include priority check-in, boarding, lounge access, and extra baggage allowance. Gold and Platinum members receive Qcredits. | Earn miles on Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Star Alliance partners. Miles redeemed for flights, upgrades. Membership Tiers: KrisFlyer, KrisFlyer Silver, and KrisFlyer Elite Gold. Elite status benefits include bonus miles, priority services, extra baggage, and lounge access. |
| Aircraft age and maintenance | Youngest fleets, with aircraft averaging around 5.9 years old. Known for rigorous maintenance procedures. | Modern fleet with stringent maintenance standards. |
| Safety record | Strong safety record with no fatal accidents since 1994. High safety ratings from Skytrax and AirlineRatings.com. | Commendable safety record, consistently ranked among the world's safest airlines. 7/7 safety rating. |
| Price competitiveness | Not available | Offers the lowest fare available through their website, ticket counters, or phone reservation line. Committed to providing value for money. |