Naturally, it's conceptually thrilling to be flying the most advanced (and largest) passenger aircraft in the world - all the more so, since as of yesterday there were only three A380s in service anywhere in the world (SQ just took delivery of its 4th a few days ago).
Intellectual thrills aside, compared to the 747-400, the ride is definitely more stable (larger wingspan, shorter fuselage), clearly feels way quieter (50% less cabin noise per literature), and actually less tiring since pressurized to a lower altitude (5,000 feet instead of 747's 8,000 feet). More importantly, the ride is greener - the A380 burns 17% less fuel per passenger than the 747 and also, can run on mixed synthetic jet fuel with a natural gas based component - as a frequent flier, this really feels good.
I boarded the upper deck straight from a jetway that attaches to the top level - eliminating the bag drag up the narrow stairs problem in the 747. 2/3 of the top deck is business class in SQ's 471 passenger version - I sat in towards the end of the section, which meant I was slightly behind the wing (see top photo). Seats are best in the industry - extremely nice and similar to the new SQ Business Class seats (also on some of their 777-300ERs including the Seoul - San Francisco route). There is a great demo at SQ's site. And the entertainment system is better, bigger, and has wider options - it kept me up most of the night.
The flight steward took me down the front stairs to the First Class (renamed Suites on SQ) area. Now these were nice - door shut, tandem dining, separate bed, and an even better entertainment section (I didn't sample the wines or food). There is talk now that Emirates upcoming first class version will have a shower as well.
You don't have to be an aeronautical engineer to enjoy the A380-800. I had a flight I will fondly remember for a while.
