Changi Airport Terminal 1 completes S$500m facelift

SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Changi Airport has completed a S$500 million facelift of its oldest terminal.

Some 22,000 square metres of floor space have been added to Terminal 1 and the number of shops and eateries has also increased to 110 from about 85 outlets.

There’s also an outdoor garden for nature lovers.

Other changes include the merging of separate immigration channels into a centralised area and the expansion of the view gallery.

Changi Airport Group’s senior vice president for airport operations, Mr Yeo Kia Thye said: "In the past, there were two separate immigration halls and each had nine counters. So it meant that you had to wait a bit longer time. By merging them into one single immigration hall, you have 18 counters. Simple mathematics will tell you that it will be faster and smoother for the passenger."

Upgrading works at the terminal began in 2008 and with the makeover fully completed, Changi Airport now plans to introduce wider automation across its terminals.

While details are still being worked out, mechanised check—ins, bag drops and flight boardings to help travellers save time are currently on the cards.

The airport is also moving to reduce manpower needs as it strives to provide passengers with the best facilities.

— CNA/fa