Actually can the B77W do MAN-SIN or did they need the B77E? Let's not forget that the reason SQ are struggling a little is because of EK, QR and EY. That's a whole other argument though.
IIRC the 77W has a greater range than the 77E.
On your last point though I completely agree. SQ serves the Australasia region better than any other airline being able to connect MAN and a number of other European cities to this area with only one stop - something other carriers cannot. In fact, are they the only airline MAN-Oz who can serve it with one stop?
Obviously for those in Y and arguably J, price is a major consideration but for a significant majority of premium traffic, speed is of the essence. Therefore I don't see why SQ couldn't serve MAN daily with any equipment as a sole destination. Plus - SQ make an absolute killing on cargo from MAN. Another benefit of the 77W!
