From a faster, automated check-in process and dazzling art installations, to new restaurants and even Peranakan shophouses, the new T4 at Changi Airport is set to put Singapore on the map once again
It’s no secret that Singapore Changi Airport is the best airport in the world – what with its boutique shopping options, high-tech and dazzling features like the upcoming Jewel Changi Airport, and base of operations for Singapore Airlines which boasts some of the world’s best airline food. And as if this gateway to the world couldn’t get any better, Changi Airport has one-upped the competition once again with its latest development – Terminal 4 (T4).
What’s that? You didn’t know Changi Airport even needed a T4? Well, once you hear what you can expect from this compact, boutique terminal (it spans 225,000sqm and took three years to construct), you’ll be turning this into your new family spot on weekends and a hangout to eat and drink in Singapore, even if you don’t intend on taking a short trip from Singapore anytime soon. Here are seven things you need to know.
Nine airlines will call T4 home
Expect some airline services to shift from Changi Airport’s other terminals – these include the Air Asia Group, Cathay Pacific, Cebu Pacific, Korean Air, Spring Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines.
Never mind that there’s no Skytrain here
While the other terminals are connected by Skytrain, T4 won’t be. But don’t freak out; instead, there will be a free shuttle bus service that runs for 24 hours (with 10-minute intervals) between T4 and T2 (the terminal that connects to the MRT station). Make sure you plan your time carefully!
A swift departure process
On the bright side, your check-in process will be much more hassle-free with the new Fast and Seamless Travel (FAST) measures at T4. A fully automated departure process, everything from check-in and bag drop, to immigration and boarding will have self-service options available. New to Changi Airport in particular is the automated bag drop service, that also uses facial recognition technology to ensure speed and security.
Security screenings have never been this fun
The restlessness and stress that awaits at the security gates – we hate it too. So take a deep breath, and lose yourself in T4’s Immersive Wall that gazes upon the screening area – not only is it massive at 70m by 5m, but it also displays high-definition looping visuals that range from magical interpretations of Singapore’s attractions to make-believe animated characters who ‘handle’ your luggage behind-the-scenes.
There are even ‘shophouses’ in the terminal
Love the traditional, colourful Peranakan shophouses of Joo Chiat and Katong? Take a break in the departure transit area and gape at these stunning, authentic facades dubbed the Heritage Zone (see above). And don’t think you’re overly-jetlagged if you start seeing things move in the shophouses; that’s because some of these exteriors are actually LCD screens! Can you tell which one?
Art is everywhere
Like a trendy boutique hotel in the city, T4, too, is charming in every corner. Aside from kaleidoscopic décor and intricate sculptures, T4 is also home to a hypnotic kinetic installation called Petalclouds, that hovers and see-saws above the Central Galleria. You’ll be watching this for hours, maybe.
Shop ’til you drop
Like we mentioned, T4 will also be a lifestyle haven with over 80 shopping and dining options. Boutiques include Kate Spade, Swarovski, and Uniqlo; while dining-wise, you’ve got London Fat Duck, Old Street Bak Kut Teh, and Sushi Goshin.
Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4, 10 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819665. For more information on the terminal, visit this website.