Singapore’s Changi Airport is considered one of the best in the world and for good reason. It’s clean, convenient, high-tech and consists of many exciting facilities for both passengers and visitors alike. Recently, a fourth terminal has opened officially known as Changi Airport Terminal 4. Here’s a glimpse of this new terminal.
What is Changi Airport Terminal 4?
Changi Airport Terminal 4 is Changi Airport’s fourth and smallest terminal. Terminal 1 opened in 1981 after having moved from Paya Lebar Airport which has since been converted to military use. Terminals 2 and 3 opened in 1991 and 2008 respectively.
Terminal 4 is part of Changi Airport’s goal to expand the airport to accommodate its ever-growing passenger numbers. Prior to the opening of Terminal 4, the terminal was used to house budget airlines known as the Budget Terminal which operated from 2006 to 2012.
Terminal 4’s Accessibility
Unlike the three earlier terminals, Terminal 4 is not connected by the airport’s much-coveted Skytrain monorail system due to its distance. Instead, accessing Terminal 4 is by a 24 hour free shuttle bus from Terminal 2 which itself has links to other terminals and Changi Airport MRT Station.
Several public bus services are also available as well at the bus stand right outside the terminal including one which heads to the city area. Private transport like limousines and taxis are available too.
Technology Takes Centre Stage at Terminal 4
Part of Terminal 4’s agenda is its automation and technology core. Touchscreen kiosks and automated gates are everywhere in Terminal 4 making the departure experience a smooth and seamless one.
Unlike the other terminals, fewer staff can be seen manning the areas with just a few on stand by to help out whoever that needs assistance. The technology is part of Changi Airport’s initiative to make the airport a better experience and it’s also in line with the government’s Smart Nation initiative.
Retail and F&B Outlets
Retail and F&B outlets were aplenty at Terminal 4 with a higher proportion of them found at the Transit area. For the F&B outlets, there was a mix of food courts, restaurants, fast food outlets and cafes to cater to everyone.
Retail outlets include duty free stores, convenience stores and more are available too for the convenience of both passengers and visitors. If you are member of Changi Airport’s rewards programmes, you can even be eligible for discounts and tax exemptions at certain stores.
Beautifying Terminal 4
Changi Airport has done a great job at beautifying Terminal 4. With its wide range of architectural features and sculptures, it was definitely a pleasant experience for anyone visiting the terminal. Toilets at the terminal are of course just as clean as the other three terminals.
However, when it comes to architecture and decorative features, the older Terminal 3 is still top-notch due to it being the flagship terminal of Changi Airport and its higher footfall compared to other terminals. Terminal 4 notably does not have a viewing gallery which can be a bit of a disappointment if you want to see the planes.
Airlines at Changi Airport’s Terminal 4
Some airlines from the three main terminals have moved to Terminal 4 to take advantage of the facilities. Airlines include popular budget airlines, AirAsia, Hong Kong-based airlines Cathay Pacific and South-Korea based Korean Air.
The Future of Changi Airport
Apart from Terminal 4, you can look forward to more developments at Changi Airport. Soon, the Jewel complex will be opened which combines all three terminals together complete with many new features and an integrated shopping mall.
Changi Airport Terminal 5 will be opened sometime in the future as well which will be the biggest when it opens together with Changi Airport’s third runway. The airport’s cargo complex, known as the Changi Airfreight Centre will be expanded to accommodate the ever-growing cargo industry.
Conclusion
Changi Airport’s Terminal 4 was indeed an interesting addition to the existing three terminals. With its automated features, technological advancements and beautiful architecture, Terminal 4 is definitely a great place to visit as both a passenger and visitor. We also look forward to Changi Airport’s future developments as well.
Getting Here
Bus services available: 24, 34, 36, 110 (Bus stop along Changi Airport PTB4)
Nearest MRT Station: CG2 Changi Airport MRT Station (East West Line)
Website: http://www.changiairport.com/