…
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and Takenaka Corporation signed a contract on the upgrading of Changi Airport Terminal 1. Takenaka is undertaking the works at an estimated cost of S$500 million. The works commenced in May this year.
With the concept “Tropical City”, the works will improve passenger flow and enhance the passenger experience, while refurbishing the terminal’s interior design and finishes. They are scheduled to be completed in the third quarter of 2011.
The contract was signed by CAAS’ Director-General & Chief Executive Officer, Mr Lim Kim Choon and Takenaka Corporation’s Managing Director, Mr Atsuyoshi Suzuki. It was witnessed by CAAS’ Chairman Mr Liew Mun Leong and Takenaka’s General Manager,
Mr Masaru Chayama.
As part of the works, a new departure kerbside canopy will be constructed to span the entire length of the building facade and extend over the first two lanes of the departure kerbside. This will provide shelter from the elements for passengers arriving at the terminal. A new centralised Departure Immigration will be created to improve passenger flow and the level of service provided. The main terminal building will be extended into the airside by 35 metres, increasing the space available for new services and facilities. To provide for more spacious movement and waiting areas, the main thoroughfare, gate holdrooms and finger piers along the older sections of the terminal will be widened.
A key highlight of the works is the creation of a new “lantern” structure along Terminal 1’s roofline. When illuminated at night, it will form a prominent feature and focal point for passengers travelling towards Terminal 1. Another feature that will capture the hearts of Singaporeans and foreigners alike is the “Orchid Library”. To be created in the Departure Check-In Hall, the “Orchid Library” will comprise potted orchids in bloom hovering in a frame, rising from the Arrival Hall to the Departure Hall.
During the ceremony, special memories of Terminal 1 were also showcased with the announcement of the winners in the Reminiscing Changi Airport Terminal 1 photo contest.
The picture of Terminal 1 that best captured the hearts of the judges depicted a mylar cord fountain. The participant won a return air ticket on ANA from Singapore to Tokyo and an Osim eye massager. In addition, the Voter’s Choice – the photo that members of the public voted as their favourite – was also unveiled. The winning photo showed Terminal 1 at sunset, described as the “Golden Hour – the most beautiful hour for reminiscing”. The winner received a Sony Ericsson mobile phone and an Osim eye massager for that entry.
CAAS’ Director-General & Chief Executive Officer, Mr Lim said, “The winning pictures in the Reminiscing photo contest reflect our dear memories of Terminal 1 since its opening in 1981. With the works underway, we are confident the upgrading works will refresh the Changi Experience for users of Terminal 1 and that Singaporeans and foreigners alike will form new and treasured memories of the upgraded terminal.”
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
