Regional full-service carrier connecting Singapore to Asia.
Founded
1989
Headquarters
Singapore, Singapore
SilkAir was a regional airline based in Singapore and operated as the regional wing of Singapore Airlines. It served destinations across Asia, including Southeast Asia, South Asia, and China, complementing Singapore Airlines' long-haul network with shorter regional routes.
Founded in 1989 and originally known as Tradewinds Charters, the airline rebranded as SilkAir in 1992 and grew into a respected full-service regional carrier. It maintained a reputation for safety and service quality consistent with its parent company.
In 2021, SilkAir was fully merged into Singapore Airlines, with all its routes and aircraft absorbed into the mainline carrier. The merger was part of Singapore Airlines' strategy to streamline operations and strengthen its regional network under a single brand.
Hubs & network
SilkAir operated primarily out of Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) as its sole hub.
Fleet
SilkAir operated a fleet of Boeing 737-800 and Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft during its later years.
Notable facts
- ›SilkAir was a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore Airlines.
- ›Originally founded as Tradewinds Charters in 1989, it was rebranded SilkAir in 1992.
- ›SilkAir was fully merged into Singapore Airlines in 2021.
- ›The airline was involved in Flight MI185, a 1997 crash over the Musi River in Indonesia that killed all 104 on board.
- ›At its peak, SilkAir served over 50 destinations across the Asia-Pacific region.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
