At-a-glance comparison
| Attribute | Emirates | Singapore Airlines | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airline category | Full-service | Full-service | Same category, a direct comparison |
| Primary hub | DXB | SIN | Different hubs: pick the one that suits your route |
| 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 | |
| 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
Who each airline suits
You want the lowest headline fare
Suited to this: Either: compare same-day fares
Both carriers are in the same fare class. Compare actual same-day fares on HappyFares for your route and date.
You want global alliance miles
Suited to this: Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines is part of Star Alliance: earn miles across 25+ partner airlines. Emirates is independent.
Frequently asked questions
Is Emirates cheaper than Singapore Airlines?
It depends on the route and the date. Compare the two on your route and dates on HappyFares to see live fares. Both carriers are in the same fare class, so compare the total for what you need.
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, with the same alliance-wide benefits. For frequent international travellers, alliance membership is the deciding factor.
Which has better refund / cancellation policy, Emirates or Singapore Airlines?
Both follow DGCA Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) Section 3 Series M Part IV, so 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 pricing applies to both: taxes included in the fare shown, zero convenience fee on domestic flights with code HFNCF, an itemised fare breakdown and no pre-ticked add-ons. Compare and book either carrier in the same booking flow.