Chow Cheng YangSingapore Changi Airport, commonly referred to as Changi Airport, has a well-deserved reputation as one of the world’s best airports. This airport in Singapore boasts an unrivalled passenger experience with many food options, attractions, and unique services. Some would even say that Changi Airport is a destination worth visiting in itself!
With travellers returning to Singapore following the easing of travel restrictions, Changi Airport is now planning for a massive expansion. Details regarding the construction of Terminal 5 (T5) have recently been revealed, with officials promising a space that embodies Singapore’s vibrant society. Here’s what you need to know regarding the Changi Airport expansion.
Also read: 14 Things to Do at Changi Airport
Singapore Changi Airport doubles in size
Image credit: guvendemir via Canva Pro
Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced the expansion during a National Day Rally in late July. Changi Airport T5 will add a capacity of around 50 million passengers per year. Considering the four active terminals have a combined total capacity of 82 million passengers a year, this is undoubtedly a massive expansion!
Details of the project
Image credit: Chris Putnam via Canva Pro
The terminal is being designed by a collaboration between global architecture firms KPF and Heatherwick Studio. According to the firms, the new terminal will be conceptualised as a series of neighbourhoods, “an intuitive extension of Singapore itself.”
Image credit: Choo Yut Shing
The construction of Changi Aiport T5 will start in two years, with the structure expected to be completed in the mid-2030s. Located within the 1,080-hectare Changi East development, the new terminal will be linked to the other four terminals and will have a three-runway system.
Image credit: Choo Yut Shing
The new terminal will also take the recent pandemic into account. According to Lee Hsien Long, T5 can be scaled up and down, allowing officials to isolate passengers from different flights to prevent cross-infection. It will also feature contactless systems and enhanced ventilation systems.
Furthermore, T5 takes sustainability to the next level with solar panels and smart building management systems. The building also employs district cooling combined with thermal energy storage.
Also read: I Survived 24 Hours in Changi Airport: My Essential Tips for Crazy Flight Cancellations
“When completed in the mid-2030s, T5 will show the world what sort of place Singapore is,” said Lee. Although it will be many years before Changi Airport T5 is completed, travellers and locals certainly have a lot to look forward to.
