At-a-glance comparison
| Attribute | Emirates | Singapore Airlines | Notes / verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airline category | Full-service | Full-service | Same category — direct comparison |
| Primary hub | DXB | SIN | Different hubs — pick the one closer to you |
| Fleet size (approx.) | 260+ aircraft | 140+ aircraft | Larger fleet: Emirates (more route redundancy on cancellation/delay) |
| Global alliance | None — independent | Star Alliance | Singapore Airlines alliance offers points on partners |
| Founded | 1985 | 1947 | Singapore Airlines has the longer operating history |
| Aircraft types in fleet | A380, B777-300ER, B777-200LR | A380, A350, B777, B787 | — |
| Domestic checked baggage (economy entry) | N/A | N/A | Same allowance |
| Cabin baggage | 7 kg | 7 kg | — |
| In-flight meals | Complimentary meal | Complimentary meal | Same meal policy |
| India customer care number | 0124-298 4444 | 022-6190 1111 | — |
About Emirates
Emirates is the UAE's flag carrier based in Dubai, operating one of the world's largest long-haul fleets — including all 118 of the world's active Airbus A380s. Connects India to 90+ destinations worldwide through its Dubai hub.
Fare structure: Saver, Flex, Flex Plus (economy); Business Saver, Business, Business Flex
About Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines is Singapore's flag carrier and one of the most awarded airlines globally. Star Alliance member serving 12+ Indian cities with connections to Asia-Pacific, Europe, Americas.
Fare structure: Economy Lite, Standard, Flexi; Premium Economy; Business; First
Best for...
You want the cheapest possible fare
Best: Either — compare same-day fares
Both carriers are in the same fare class. Compare actual same-day fares on HappyFares; differences are usually ₹200-500 either way based on route and day.
You want global alliance miles
Best: Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines is part of Star Alliance — earn miles across 25+ partner airlines. Emirates is independent.
Travelling with infant or family
Best: Emirates
Emirates includes complimentary meals, generous baggage, free seat selection (sit-together) — material savings for a family. Singapore Airlines sells these add-ons separately, which can equal or exceed the headline price gap.
Frequently asked questions
Is Emirates cheaper than Singapore Airlines?
Both carriers are in the same fare class. Compare actual same-day fares on HappyFares — the difference on overlapping routes is usually under ₹500 either way. On HappyFares, the displayed price is the all-in price (no convenience fee) for either airline.
Does Emirates or Singapore Airlines have more checked baggage allowance?
Emirates's economy domestic checked allowance is N/A. Singapore Airlines's is N/A. Both are equivalent. Pre-purchased excess baggage online is typically 25-30% cheaper than airport rates on either airline.
Which has the better frequent flyer programme?
Emirates runs an independent loyalty programme; miles are not transferable to other airlines. Singapore Airlines's programme is part of Star Alliance — same alliance-wide benefits. For frequent international travellers, alliance membership is the deciding factor.
Does Singapore Airlines have a business class?
Singapore Airlines's premium offering varies by route. Emirates has a full-service business class with lie-flat seats on long-haul aircraft.
Which has better refund / cancellation policy — Emirates or Singapore Airlines?
Both follow DGCA Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) Section 3 Series M Part IV — the regulator-mandated framework is identical. For Cancel-for-Any-Reason refunds regardless of fare rules, HappyFares Smart Saver add-on covers either airline.
Does Emirates fly the same routes as Singapore Airlines?
Emirates's hub is DXB. Singapore Airlines's hub is SIN. Both serve major Indian metros, but their route networks differ — Emirates specialises in connections via DXB, and Singapore Airlines connects via SIN. Use HappyFares to see which airline operates your specific city pair.
Can I book both Emirates and Singapore Airlines on HappyFares?
Yes — HappyFares lists fares from both Emirates and Singapore Airlines (along with every other major airline operating Indian routes). The same all-in pricing applies regardless of carrier: zero OTA convenience fee on domestic flights, transparent fare breakdown, no pre-ticked add-ons. Compare and book either carrier in the same booking flow.