A piece of heaven

First Prize winner

MANILA, Philippines - With utmost sense of comfort, I was brought to the clouds close to heaven where I could whisper my eternal love for him.

I was studying for my MBA at Oxford in 2008 when Papa passed away. I immediately booked a Singapore Airlines flight since they had the first departure out of London to Manila.

It was during my flight back to London that I had my first encounter with the famed SIA A380. The experience I had during that flight momentarily eased the pain in my heart. While waiting at the gate, my expectations were raised when I saw that I was going to fly in the super jumbo aircraft. I was not disappointed. To say that I was “gobsmacked” would be an understatement.

The seats were larger and more comfortable, the aisles were spacious, and the entertainment selection was extensive and the latest. They felt like a five-star hotel room more than an aircraft. Before taking off, champagne was served. Ferrero-Rocher chocolates, Doritos nachos, fresh apples, gourmet sandwiches, and different beverages were overflowing. It was also my first time to taste the Singapore Sling — and boy, it was a hit!

I slept like a baby during the trip. The soft Givenchy pillows and crisp linen blanket felt like my own. It was a serene flight — nary an air pocket in sight. Although I was in the Economy cabin, I was extended First Class service. The sweet smiles and the courtesy of the cabin attendants remain a trademark of SIA service. It felt like I was truly in the heavens.

For the next 12 hours, the A380 was an oasis. It relieved, albeit temporarily, the grief I was experiencing. It gave me a quick recharge and helped me to focus on what would lie ahead — continuing my studies. There were a few times when the A380 let me cry on her shoulder, but as I looked through the window and saw the bright sky, I knew I was closer to where Papa is.

I have the fondest memories each time I ride the A380. It has nearly been two years since I lost Papa and each time I ride the A380 (to date, I have had four experiences). And when I do, I always whisper to the clouds, “Mahal kita, Papa!”