Innovation vital for Changi Airport to stay ahead: Lui

SINGAPORE — Innovation is necessary for the Republic to seize growth opportunities in the aviation industry and to strengthen its position as a leading aviation hub, said Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew yesterday, at the ground-breaking ceremony of Jewel Changi Airport.

Although Changi has won over international travellers and consistently been honoured as one of the world’s best airports, Mr Lui said this cannot be taken for granted.

“We are operating in a dynamic and increasingly competitive environment,” he said. “Passengers today are spoilt for choice as air hubs around the world actively pursue new ways to boost their appeal as destinations and as transit points.”

Project Jewel was first announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at last year’s National Day Rally. The project was conceived to maintain the Republic’s position as an international hub and create more economic opportunities for Singaporeans. Its official name is Jewel Changi Airport.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the ceremony, Mr Philip Yim, chief executive of Jewel Changi Airport Development, said the project will cost S$1.7 billion instead of the initial S$1.47 billion announced last year, due to factors such as a tight labour market.

To be opened in 2018, Jewel Changi Airport will be built on the 3.5ha car park in front of Terminal 1 (T1). The 134,000 sqm mixed-use complex will feature attractions, retail offerings, a hotel and facilities for airport operations. Besides an indoor garden and a 40m high waterfall, the project’s crowning glory is its dome-shaped structure, made entirely of glass and steel.

With the redevelopment of T1’s open-air car park, the terminal’s passenger handling capacity will be increased to 24 million passengers per year, up from 17.7 million in 2013.

The number of baggage belts at the arrival hall will be increased from eight to 10 and more than 10 taxi pick-up bays will be added to the current 20.

Jewel Changi Airport will also serve as a node that links the three terminals at Changi, improving inter-terminal connectivity. Travellers at the airport will also have more accommodation choices with Jewel Changi Airport's 130-room hotel, which will be operated by international hotel brand YOTEL. AMANDA LEE