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Singapore Changi Airport review by B Kennedy
12 July 2007 Customer Rating : 
Why is this a 5 star airport? It is dated with old decor and poor
facilities. There is a lack of seating at gates, or anywhere else in the
airport for that matter. Food outlets are limited. But of course airport
these days are completely given over to shopping with little or no
though for those people who hate shopping. Also with the new security
system in pace regarding liquids on board aircraft, Changi has some
frankly weird rule that allows you to bring sealed bottles of duty free,
perfume etc of any size on to the plane but you cannot take sealed
bottles of water! Again a rule to appease the duty free shops, but with
little consideration for passenger comfort, with so many long haul
flights using the airport, having to fly for 14 hours without any water,
is not only inhumane its unhealthy. I dont understand how other airports
let you take water purchased in the airport onto the plane.
Singapore Changi Airport review by A Wilmot
11 July 2007 Customer Rating : 
Service was generally great and everything was clean, especially the
bathrooms. The shopping and food outlets were reasonably priced. The
food court upstairs is getting a make-over (and it needs it by the look
of it). My only complaint, was that the transfer desks (we used C & D)
were under staffed. We transferred about 8pm each time, and waited about
20-30 minutes at least, to get served. It was frustrating after a 6.5
hour flight to wait so long for a boarding pass for our next flight.
Once at the front of the queue though, the service was good.
Singapore Changi Airport review by S Grynkewich
3 July 2007 Customer Rating : 
Singapore airport is generally efficient and clean - as is everything in
Singapore. But where it once had spacious, clean areas, it's been given
over to gross commercialism with a host of shops and stores in a bit of
over-kill. Immigration on arrival can be slow and annoying - especially
in face of the fact that everything else seems to be run on a very
efficient level.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Bill Atkins
19 May 2007 Customer Rating :
Long lines at immigration and very slow processing. The airport is
spacious and clean and does have the advantage of plenty of room to
expand. I would not agree that duty free shopping is good value.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Wayne Herbert
13 May 2007 Customer Rating : 
I fly in and out of SIN all the time. Best airport I have been in.
Changi is an intimate airport - I am tired of the swooped, echoing,
metal braced halls of so many advanced airports.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Sonu Nair
8 May 2007 Customer Rating :
Used Changi a couple of times. It's a delightful experience. Pleasant &
friendly staff, Enough activities to engage on if it is a long transit.
Duty free prices are very competitive, unlike any other airport. In fact
can use the prices as a benchmark for a little more bargain in the city
malls. Good restaurants & free internet. Almost completely Wi-fi
covered, but not free. The connectivity to the city is excellent. Pick
up a cab or a MRT & save $. Overall the feel good factor stays for a
long time. It's the final word for hospitality, just like their airline.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Mehmet Kural
5 May 2007 Customer Rating :
I spent about 15 hours in that airport in transit. However the HSBC lounge allows you to take in guests and also has showers, and free snacks.
I recommend it and all the candy shops and book stores are really good to kill time.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Stefan Dowideit
20 March 2007 Customer Rating : n/a
Used the Budget-Terminal in Changi recently for the first time. What a
surprise. I didnt really expect the same efficiency as in T1/T2,
immigration and baggage handling can really compete with what i am used
to at T1/T2. I got off the aircraft, passed immigration, went to duty
free and picked up my luggage (it actually made one round on the belt in
the meantime) and i was out in the heat. The budget-terminal is
connected to T1 with a free shuttle bus which runs every 10min. The
departure hall has all the usual shops, from news paper, clothing to
duty free you can find everything there. A restaurant is there as well.
Singapore Changi Airport review byT Kelly
27 December 2006
I frequently use this airport on both transits and trips to Singapore.
As others have mentioned, immigration is a breeze, even when arriving at
busy times there is always sufficient immigration staffing levels. Food
is so reasonably priced, especially considering the exorbitant airport
food prices of my own country (Australia). I recommend the upstairs food
court in T2, great food especially the dishes such as laksa. However,
with so many free activities, I am surprised that wireless LAN attracts
a fee. It is for this reason that I prefer KLIA, but still, Singapore
Changi is up there with the best.
Singapore Changi Airport review byFrank Winter
21 December 2006
Best airport I have ever been (I've been to SFO, FRA, LHR, Barcelona,
HKG, KL, SIN, Bangkok, Beijing, Shanghai Pudong, Manila, Sydney,
Melbourne, Paris and a few more). You will be very sad that not every
airport is like this. Very efficient: get baggage fast, lots of
immigration officers, clean, comfortable/ homey feeling although very
big, direct access from city via subway (very cheap), close to city (25
minutes), everybody speaks English, excellent service, free internet (15
minutes), WLAN everywhere (not free), high quality food to very
reasonably prices (excellent Sushi), showers, lots of activities (tours
you can take if on a stopover), own airport magazine. Simply the best
(even slightly better than Hong Kong though both are excellent).
Singapore Changi Airport review byTony Quinn
10 December 2006
Used Changi for the first time during a recent holiday to Singapore. It
was a pleasant experience apart from getting transport into the city
centre. The airport web site says that Shuttle vans operate at a cost of
S$7 per person. When we tried to use them we were told there would be an
hours wait but that we could have one to ourselves immediately for S$35
- what a con. Eventually took a taxi for S$15. The airport was a very
pleasant surprise, possibly the best I've experienced. As others have
commented the arrivals procedure is pretty slick. I regularly travel to
the USA where the immigration procedures seldom take less than an hour
and the immigration officials are the least welcoming I've come across.
At Singapore there were no queues and the official actually smiled and
welcomed us - what a pleasant surprise. When we departed we had quite a
long wait (self imposed) which was a not too unpleasant experience.
Plenty of cafes and restaurants, plenty of seats, plenty of shops etc,
etc, and the prices were reasonable too. It's a pity all airports are
not as good as this it would make air travel a lot more bearable.
Singapore Changi Airport review byP Major
22 October 2006
Recently travelled through the Budget Terminal at Changi. Quick arrival,
although a rather long walk with no travelators (hence the Budget).
Quick immigration and customs and a shuttle bus was quick to leave for
terminal two to allow us to catch the MRT into town. Departure wasn't as
interesting as I might have imagined as you are marooned at a limited
food and beverage choice area until half an hour before the flight
(presumably so the businesses don't lose business from people lining up
ages before departure time). Boarding was an effortless walk over the
tarmac (quite reminds me of the old terminal at my home town which I
used to always enjoy). In all, it doesn't stand up to the excellent
facilities at T1 and T2 but is a fine option considering the bargain
fares in and out of the terminal.
Singapore Changi Airport review byNeil Ramsay
19 October 2006
Transited from a SQ to a MI flight to Phuket in minimal time thanks to
good departure information and signage. Entered Singapore on the return
journey. From arrival thru immigration and baggage claim to taxi - 10
minutes! Departure just as impressive. Huge lines for early morning
departures but all SQ desks manned by efficient and pleasant staff and
immigration the same. Plenty of good duty free shops and restaurants to
fill in the waiting time. Toilet facilities are top class. The flower
gardens are wonderful. Security check at gate was thorough and quick.
Only downside was a bus to our aircraft which left us standing in the
heat being subjected to aircraft noise while waiting to board. If only
all airports were this good.
Singapore Changi Airport review byPeter Dowd
2 October 2006
Arrival at about 2000 hrs - no delays or no queues at immigration.
Opportunity to buy duty free on arrival a big plus as prices are cheaper
than duty free in UK. If intending to buy electronic / photographic
goods you can check prices at airport to use as your guidelines for
bargaining downtown. Departed around midnight and again plenty of room
and hardly any delay at checkin, customs or immigration. Remember if
buying in town, get a tax refund form and the local tax can be reclaimed
at the airport.
Singapore Changi Airport review byKen Hume
16 September 2006
One problem in Changi is the display information. The boards at the main
area where the duty free is located show flight information well in
advance, but the display boards near the gates only show about an hour
ahead. last time I went all the way to the main area to find out the
gate for my connecting flight about 2 hours later, only to find it was
next to the gate I'd just arrived through. I guess it's a deliberate
ploy to get you to the duty free area.
Singapore Changi Airport review byFrancis Chan
24 July 2006
Used Terminal 1. This is a beautiful airport, well decorated and
landscaped. Extensive shopping facilities. The atmosphere, while comfy
and plush, is a little dim, though, with no much sunlight or views of
aircraft. Free Internet makes a big difference for travellers.
Singapore Changi Airport review byBrian Williams
18 July 2006
Stopped over in Chiangi International on a six hour transfer to
Australia. Loved the airport facilities, food, drinks and not to
mention the duty free shopping.
Singapore Changi Airport review byPeter Dowling
1 July 2006
What I didn't mention in my previous comments, and which is very
important to me, is that if you are transferring to/from a mainline
carrier at SIN, you won't be able to use the airside hotels, etc.
For this reason alone, I can't use TR in future. Good one Singapore
Govt!
Singapore Changi Airport review byMike Langran
1 July 2006
Changi is an absolute delight to travel in/out of. When we arrived from
MEL, our bags were off before we arrived in the baggage hall, and this
despite no queues at Immigration - all the desks being manned. Check in
was also fully manned and no queues, as was immigration.
Singapore Changi Airport review byG Chong
21 June 2006
Recently used the new Budget Terminal at Changi. Have used the LCCT in
KL as well, but found that the SBT is much better overall. As tiger is
the only airline that uses it at the moment, it is not crowded when I
was there. I think in afternoon, flights outbound are every two hours!!
Comprehensive range of facilities, free internet, TV, comfortable lounge
chairs, laptop stations, 7-eleven, bookshops etc. No aerobridge but the
planes are literally just outside the door so need to walk much.
Singapore Changi Airport review byBob Moore
12 June 2006
I would like to thank the tourist information counter for the excellent
service. I arrived at 6.30am from Perth via Singapore Air on Friday 19th
May and was offered a 10 trip SMRT ticket and one of 3 items when I came
back to the airport to continue at 6.35PM to Phuket. I found this to be
excellent PR from the Tourist Board and enjoyed my stay in Singapore and
have recommended your staff.
Singapore Changi Airport review bySouk Lan Lim
10 June 2006
Unlike Peter Dowling, I think it's an advantage that only 1 airline uses
the budget terminal. Check in was a total breeze, and baggage collection
when coming back was very quick. If Tiger charges lower ticket prices
because it's having to pay less in airport charges at the Budget
Terminal then I'll happily continue to use them.
Singapore Changi Airport review byPeter Dowling
1 June 2006
I recently used the new "budget" terminal at Changi on a couple of
occasions, and found it to be very poor. Apart from the "empty
warehouse" nature of the place, one of its worst aspects is that only
one airline currently uses it, ie, Tiger Airways. I believe that Tiger
was forced to use this awful place by the Singapore government, which is
a major shareholder of Tiger, so that the terminal did not sit empty for
a long time. It's worth noting that none of the other low-cost airlines
have opted to go there. It's a pity, because Tiger are quite a good
airline, but I won't be rushing back to the budget terminal under any
circumstances, so Tiger will lose my business.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Hugues Martel
18 May 2006
I have been travelling twice through the new budget terminal. The
terminal building looks like a huge warehouse. Facilities are minimum
with few shops and few food stalls. There are no place to sit in the
terminal building except at the food stalls. As its name says, it is a
budget terminal with budget facilities. On both my arrivals, not a
single taxi was waiting for the passengers and I had to wait about 30
minutes on each occasions to get a taxi.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Rob Payne
22 April 2006
This was truly a wonderful experience. Light, loads of room and speed. 15 mins from arriving at the gate, having collected
our hold baggage and stepping into our Limo outside.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Stephen Lloyd
7 April 2006
Singapore airport is always a pleasure to land at - comfortable and
efficient with just the right amount of shops and range to occupy you on
departure. Speed from touch-down to cab is excellent, immigration superb
(the USA should send people here to view and learn). My only gripes are
some landing points can be a 10 minute walk - minor in comparison to
other places.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Claus Heins
27 March 2006
Great Airport. I hardly ever disembarked from a plane, went through
immigration and the baggage was on the belt within 20-25 minutes.
Same experience while departing. Friendly and fast check in, no waiting
time at the immigration desk, a lot of duty-free and shopping area.
Looks like a nice place for a couple of transit hours too.
Singapore Changi Airport review by S Dowideit
19 February 2006
Where else in the world you touch down and half an hour later you and
your luggage are in a cab? I am stilled amazed by that, getting out of
an aircraft, clearing immigration, grab a few cans of beer at the duty
free and your luggage is waiting for you on the belt. There lots of
free Internet terminals now and sufficient areas to rest in the transit
hall. And the shopping area seems to grow bigger every time I come into
Changi. I wonder how the new Terminal 3 will look like.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Rod Hocking
2 January 2006
We flew HKG/SIN for a few days break. We were pleasantly surprised to
get through quite swiftly. We had deliberately chosen a hotel serviced
by the underground train; due to a delayed flight we made the last train
(literally) by the skin of our teeth (that aside, anyone who doesn't
use the train is crazy, $2/10minutes against $25/25minutes for a
taxi!! Additionally; the hotel was able to provide an electronic door
key that also activated all the Singapore public transport systems
thereby eliminating the need to carry change). On the way out, much
the same, no inordinate delays. Plenty of restaurants and duty free
stores at acceptable prices. Overall; a great airport.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Geoffrey McNab
13 September 2005
Changi still remains a great airport although the changes within the
terminals to create even more retail shops etc means it is no longer as
calm and serene an airport as it used to me. Intrusive televisions now
blare out whereas in the past one had to sit in chairs with built in
speakers to hear the sound. The great advantage of Changi, if flying
with Singapore Airlines, is the ability top check one's baggage in up to
48 hours in advance. A recent incident, however, changed my mind
about the friendliness of Changi. My flight from Osaka landed at 01.00am
and my connecting flight to Kuala Lumpur was not until 06.30am. I felt
this too short a time to take advantage of the Terminal Transit hotels
and, having slept on the plane decided I would stay awake and "enjoy"
the Changi facilities, especially the lounger sleeping chairs in the
Oasis section at the end of the E pier. These are much advertised in the
facilities brochures. Having fallen asleep I was stunned to be
poked awake by a lady policeman accompanied by six armed soldiers. She
brusquely demanded to see my boarding pass and passport. No explanation
as to why. Every person in the immediate area, all passengers in
transit, experienced the same brusque interrogation with no logical
explanation at all. Having transited many times at Changi (some of my
daytime transits have been 10 - 12 hours just to enjoy the airport and
facilities), this was the first time I have ever experienced such an
interrogation. DAy time pax don't seem to be dealt with this way so why
are night time transit passengers deemed worthy of wakening up for
questioning. An email to the General Manager re. this incident (28th
August) has yet receive a response. Its a shame the hitherto enjoyable
transits and appreciation of Changi has been soured by the actions of
one official who appeared to be a jobs worth and had not been to any
police training charm school.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Christopher J Hughes
15 June 2005
I found Changi airport to be very clean and efficient with a good selection of places to eat and a
nice range of shops. The facilities are all modern and clean. The only draw back is the long moving
walkways that run the length of the terminal. There are breaks in these but if you are on the wrong
side it is a bit of a walk to get round to the other side.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Neil Ramsay
4 June 2005
Had a longer than normal layover in SIN so decided to go into town for dinner rather than face the
fast food outlets at Changi. Quick friendly immigration official who offered candy from a bowl and
no queues. No luggage so was at the taxi rank 10 mins after landing.
Returned some hours later and was thru emigration and security in a few minutes. Had time to explore
the numerous good shopping outlets as well as use the free computer terminals.
Gate security was very strict with special attention paid to boarding passes (what is it with
magnifying glass inspections?) and passports of non western passengers. Changi may be looking a
bit worn around the edges but it is still one of the best airports in the world.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Steve Hayes
4 June 2005
Transited Changi Three times in May 2005 whilst moving between New Zealand, India and the UK. Each
time was an exercise in efficiency. Very pleasant staff, even the gate security staff. A smile
does go a long way. The Premium Plaza Lounge upstairs at the higher number end of the "F" gates in
terminal two is brilliant. Great showers, internet access, inclusive refreshments and all for a
reasonable price. Excellent for a five hour layover, especially after a 14 hour flight.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Harry Tsui
1 April 2005
One thing that make Changi stands out among the crowd, including the Hong Kong CLK, is the wide
availability of the Internet terminals. My experience is restricted to Terminal 1 only. I can take
care of my office work on-line, check my emails and the weathers before
boarding. There were a
cluster of 3 tables , each with 4 terminals, right close to the Immigration. There are other tables
with similar terminals at the far end. They even have 2 Internet terminals inside the boarding
lounge, immediately before boarding. The last several times I used the Terminal 1's
immigration were smooth. The immigration officers I have encountered last time were quite friendly.
If you are in Terminal 1, skip the SATS Lounge and enjoy the nice McCafe with nice view. I walked
around the new Terminal this time. The restaurant lobby looks more like a 5 star hotel setting than
a regular airport!
Singapore Changi Airport review by Harry Tsui
22 March 2005
I have been using the Changi Airport 6 times in the last few months. It was all between the Hong
Kong CLK Airport and Changi. The most important concern for me is how fast to get in and out the
airport, taking all the accounts of the immigration, baggage check and transportation. Changi tops CLK in this aspect. (Except the airport train which stops at 11:18PM!) However,
there is one thing that makes the two airports ways apart, that is the attitude of the people there.
I felt extremely uneasy with the tough and rude attitude of some people I have encountered at Changi.
Singapore Changi Airport review by Elwyn Mallari
15 February 2005
My wife and I had about an 8-hour stop-over in Singapore on Jan. 15th. We stayed in the Premier
Lounge on the second floor of the terminal. They moved the place since the last time I was at
Singapore's Changi Airport two years ago. The new place is larger. The seats are very comfortable.
The shower rooms are very clean, but they should have separate sections for male and female
passengers. There is free food and drinks, and several computers are connected to the internet for
free use. I highly recommend this place for anyone who has a 4 or more hours of lay-over in
Singapore.
Singapore Changi Airport review by LY Chin
7 February 2005
Other than having nice shops and being an efficient airport, there's nothing more to shout about
SIN. Frankly speaking, this is an airport that renders two different level of services. Yes, all the
staffs in this airport will wear a warm smile - only if you're a foreigner and specifically white
/ caucasian. If you're a local or bearing an asian look - you can forget about
courtesy - you do not
even get a simple friendly gesture of hi and bye!! Of the many times I've gone through
this airport I've yet to encounter a "friendly" immigration officer let alone getting a
welcome
smile from them !
Changi Airport by Mark McFerran
4 February 2005
Changi Airport has been a most pleasant experience. We had a 10 hour stopover, we took the FREE bus
tour to Sentosa, visited the Plaza lounge (the most relaxing lounge I've ever been in - it's pay per
use) had a swim in the roof top swimming pool and my partner loved the shops. There is FREE
internet all around the airport, a FREE cinema and an outdoor viewing area. Even the immigration
officers smiled and made you feel welcome.
Changi Airport by Peter Borschberg
13 December 2004
Changi is not a bad airport, but after living in Singapore for almost 14 years, I cannot say that I
share the great enthusiasm that many travellers sense on their first or second arrival at the
airport. My biggest complaint is check in time, irrespective of the airline that I fly with. Staff
at the check-in counters are not very friendly, and on occasion have been positively rude. My
biggest praise goes to immigration clearance and baggage retrieval.
Changi Airport by Pete Osborne
4 December 2004
I've been to Changi twice - both times in transit between the UK and New Zealand. After getting off
a 14 hour flight from London, I found it to be just what I needed. A lot of natural light, wide
spaces, places to sit and relax. Whereas at Heathrow the philosophy seems to be 'cram as much in as
small a place as possible', at Changi they understand the benefits of space and light.
Changi Airport by Peter Riemenschnitter
18 November 2004
First time been to Changi on flight from/to Dubai and was very satisfied. Took me less than 20
minutes between leaving airplane and actually sitting in the taxi as a first time Changi passenger,
including immigration, money change, luggage pickup. Outbound no problems either, Skytrain looks a
little bit antique to me, overall connection between Terminals and City is not that good as you are
used to in the rest of Singapore, but everything went ok. Especially appreciated the Lounge service
offered by SIA on the upper level, which is open to all passengers for a little charge.
Changi Airport by Adam Datta
17 November 2004
I was really impressed with Singapore Changi airport from start to finish. On my first
ever arrival to Changi Terminal 1 (older building), transfer to the immigrations and baggage
handling was the fastest ever in my life, and hassle free. Within 10 minutes after deplaning, I met
my Kuoni holiday representative on the other side of the customs and immigrations, at the arrivals
hall. On my return on 12th November 2004, I was efficiently dropped at Terminal 1
departure. I quickly found out the Emirates check in desk, and as I was early, I was offered an
express check-in. I do admit that the check-in girl was slow but that was because a trainee going
live and being monitored by a more experienced agent. Considering being new, I didn't mind that she
was slow but paying attention to detail. Again, security and immigration were very fast and
efficient and the staff were friendly. Changi may look dated compared to Kuala Lumpur
& Dubai, but Terminal 1 is still very neat and clean. As there was ample time prior to
boarding my flight to London, I managed to ride on the Sky Train to the more modern
Terminal 2. All in all, both terminals were interlinked on the departure side without any further
security checks. There are wide choice of Duty free shopping and catering outlets, though many
closed at that time, as it was after midnight. I noticed that Terminal 1 departure had a Spa Lounge
while Terminal 2 had a Gym, both subject to reservations, I will know future. What really surprised
however, that as Singapore is strict against smoking against smoking in public places, particularly
air conditioning zones, Changi has loads of designated smoking zones. Some of them really attractive
like the Garden roof terrace in Terminal 2 & an Open air bar terrace in Terminal 1. Both places, you
can view planes subject to inhaling smoke fumes if you are a non smoker. At to this, all staff are
friendly and straight to the point but thorough. If older Terminals 1 & 2 are so good, what will
future Changi Terminal 3 be like. I never noticed the famous Changi Airports fountains by the way,
but I was never in the landside much in Terminal 1, not at all in Terminal 2.
Changi Airport by Sören Krumrey
1 November 2004
Iīve been living in Singapore for the past few months and therefore used Changi ariport quite
frequently over the past few months. Though itīs clearly one of the worldīs better airports I still
canīt understand the hype about it cause itīs definitely not the best. Yes, itīs very clean (after
all, itīs Singapore, so Iīd be very much surprised if it wasnīt) and works quite efficiently most of
the times. Immigration can be quite a hassle though, depending on the time of your arrival. I
especially like the many free internet access points provided where you usually donīt have to wait
for long until you get one of the computers, which is very rare on airports, as far as I know.
But, and now comes the bad part, Changi airport looks completely outdated and the whole atmosphere
makes me always fell like making a trip back in time. The design looks awfully old-fashioned, even
quite shabby in certein parts of the terminal buildings and itīs about time for a complete rehab of
the whole buildings. Compared to say Dubai airport, changi doesnīt even come close
in my opinion. the train system to the City is very clean, efficient and unbelievable cheap, though
I can only recommend using it if you arrive at Terminal 2. The connection from Terminal 1 over to
Terminal 2 is ridiculous, this little always overcrowded connecting train is once again absolutely
old-fashioned and not what youīd expect in Singapore at all, so when arriving at Terminal 1 Iīd
always opt for taking a cab instead, which is, by the way, still very cheap compared to Europe or
the US. Important advice, though: Make sure you queue on the normal taxi-stand with the queue moving
extremely fast there ,and donīt even think about going with one of those guys awaiting you at the
arrival hall who will definitely rip you off big time with overpriced fares.
One more little thing cause it was already mentioned by others frequently on this forum, which makes
me feel quite uncomfortable at Changi, but exactly the same goes for Dubai as well: I might be one
of the lucky people who by coincidence come with golden blonde hair and a very light skin colour but
am I the only one who feels very strange when I realize that Iīm treated so much better compared to
letīs say people from India or Africa? That is something I really feel bad about, especially
considering that Singapore is such a diverse country which I very much like about it.
Changi Airport by Clement Quah
21 October 2004
September 28 arrived Terminal Two, Singapore Airport at 1.15am from
South Korea. Enjoying my supper at Food Court while waiting for
connecting flight to Kuala Lumpur. Annoyed by arm force personals (2
teams with 4 personals each) with heavy machine guns (M-16 alike)
demanding passport to be shown, and name to be recorded for so-called
security checking. They checked everyone in the food court, Sub-way
Restaurant, 7-11, Toilet, and awaken those who were sleeping. Kind of
insulting because it was done by arm force personals instead of airport
security officers. So if you don't really appreciated to be waken-up by
tip of machine guns or phobia on machine guns while sleeping, resting,
eating or easing at toilet, never ever transit in Singapore Airport
after midnight.
Changi Airport by Julio Benedicto
19 July 2004
Despite the gruff immigration officials and the unexpected security screening upon arrival from
Manila (fortunately, we were in the front of the queue), Singapore Changi remains my favorite
airport. I've never had to wait very long for my luggage (whenever I've flown from London or
Manila), and the bright lights and airy feel tend to lift my spirits when I disembark. Perhaps I
don't know what counts as "entertaining" at an airport, but I find the options at Changi for
shopping, eating and relaxing more than adequate. Priority Pass customers should take advantage of
their access to the Premium Plaza Lounge (2nd floor [American way of counting] near the F gates):
the lounge was nearly empty late at night, a good selection of refreshments was available, and the
30-minute neck-and-back massage (you do have to pay for it) was absolutely refreshing.
Changi Airport by Colin May
15 July 2004
If Changi Airport continues to security screen arrival passengers then they should create gates
specifically designed for such treatment. It is not befitting Changi’s good reputation to force 300
arriving passengers to endure such treatment on arrival. Due to sensitivity of the equipment, on
average it took each passenger 20 seconds to be processed. You do the math, with ONLY 2 scanners in
operation, that's 50 minutes before the last person is processed.
Should also highlight that NO announcement was made. No provision for small children. No toilets or
drinks. I do not agree that authorities can simply use the word “security” as an excuse to act in
this or similar ways.
Fortunately better-designed airports segregate incoming from departing passengers thus do not have
this problem.
Changi Airport by Khuong Dang
1 July 2004
So much for the name and fame. Changi airport is indeed spacious and modern, but the service there
is "terrible". We had to wait almost 90 minutes for the security to come to the gate to resolve a
"minor" issue - as a result, we missed our flight and had to wait 24 hours for the next available
flight back to the USA. Also, we had to wait almost 1 hour to get thru customs/immigration. Worse
of all, immigration officers are rude and unfriendly. True, there are free access to the
internet at the airport, but you have to wait in line for at least 1 hour, because they allow 15
minutes per person, if you have 10 people waiting in line, it will take a long time for you to be
able to touch the keyboard. A word of advice for everyone - never buy anything at this airport, the
prices are extremely high.
Changi Airport by David Wong
28 June 2004
Changi does not have the fabulous architecture of, say, the airports in Hong Kong or Kuala Lumpur.
But it more than makes up for this through its range of services and efficiency. Want free Internet
access? No problem - lots of places to go online. Shopping? The whole terminal feels like a
shopping mall. There's even a swimming pool and cinema if you have a long wait between transfers.
Top it all off with efficient customs/immigration and decent connections into town, and you have an
airport that is one of the best in the world.
Changi Airport by Zhang Feng Qi
19 June 2004
Changi is much older than Hong Kong Intl Airport, and HKG's design is
newer and more modern with all aspects thought through. But, I commend
Changi for keeping up so well. In terms of security, cleanliness,
environment, entertainment and efficiency, Singapore doesn't lose out at
all. Changi's architecture is truly beautiful and relaxing while HKG is
big and spacious. I feel that Changi's standards have never dropped.
Also, both terminals are undergoing upgrading. T3 is on the way too. I'm
sure Changi will maintain its good reputation.
Changi Airport by Jurgen Julio
7 June 2004
I think the only airport better than Changi is Chep Lap Kok in Hong Kong. Singapore have one of the
best shopping Area. And they built a new section of the airport. And the design made it so much
better. And they have a new MRT connection making it better for transportation. The only thing why Chep
Lap Kok is better than Changi is the age and the design. The design of the Chep Lap Kok is modern
and more bright. Changi seem to have a old image. The design some how have to much dark
colour so
make it "boring". But it's still a destination of it'd own.
Changi Airport by Chohong Choi
18 May 2004
The extension of Singapore's subway system (the MRT) to Changi is a big plus for travelers looking
for another way downtown besides taxis and buses. The MRT is not as fast as Hong Kong's Airport
Express, but it's a lot cheaper. Just don't bring too much luggage on board, as few of its cars are
equipped with luggage racks.
Changi Airport by Diana Homewood
13 May 2004
Just a word about Changi. It is a super airport but beware the taxi touts in arrivals. Almost
certainly you will be swooped on to take a smart taxi to your hotel. REFUSE it costs three times as
much as the local taxi service which is fast, clean and cheap. The touts are illegal by the way!
Changi Airport by Sam Yap
6 May 2004
I don't know what the fuss about security screening in the gate area for each plane is about.
Each gate is equipped with at least 2 x-ray machines and often up to 4 passenger screening stations.
Look at airports such as Brisbane, where the entire airport seems to only be equipped with 2 x-ray
stations serving the entire airport after the immigration point, and that means up to six planes
during the peak hours. The investment of putting 2 machines in SIN in every gate saves time, and
would not be delayed unless passengers decide to run to the holding gate only 5 minutes before the
scheduled departure time!
Changi Airport by Calvin Limmer
23 April 2004
Recently I flew from Davao to Sin on Silk Air. Upon our arrival, we were sent to the screening area. The screening officers were DAMN
rude. They treated all passengers in the flight as if we were some al-Qaeda terrorists. I felt
totally humiliated. Ground staff were not friendly. For a so called top airport, gone were the days.
Changi Airport by Bob Neilans
15 April 2004
Transited Singapore on the way to Auckland and back in Late December/January 2004 and was well
impressed with the Business Lounge - Internet, drinks, eats, excellent toilets/showers - You can't
fault it.
Changi Airport by John Houseman
10 April 2004
It is the best airport I have ever been through.
On arrival it took my wife and I just 12 minutes from from the aircraft
deplaning and
meeting my relatives through customs. Top score for that.
On departure, although it takes a little distance, I manage to find a good place to see planes
landing and the runway (the east runway) and once through immigration, the places to sit and do some
final business through my PDA, laptop internet access is simply wonderful.
Security is tight which gives my wife and I some sense of security, their checking against SARS
certainly is quite less intrusive (than in China) and the cleanliness is throughout the airport.
The general feeling I feel very much relaxed once I have landed and also leaving, It certainly
deserves the full 5-star rating.
Changi Airport by Malachy Roscoe
15 February 2004
Having transited through Singapore recently from Perth to London I was only too happy to have a few
hours to explore what most of your contributors claim is the world’s best airport. My outward flight
had such a tight connection I had no opportunity to enjoy any of the facilities. As a Star Alliance
Gold card holder I looked forward to experiencing the hospitality of Singapore airlines and hoped
that the service they offered on the ground was equal to that offered in the air. Unfortunately I
was left disappointed on both counts. The airport was crowded with very little seating available
even at 4am, I found the large selection of shops offering pretty much the same selection as one
another and the layout was confusing and cramped. Regarding the hospitality of Singapore airlines,
as I approached their business lounge I was quickly turned away and instructed to visit the
dedicated Star Alliance lounge. On entering the lounge the attendant in true Singapore style was
welcoming and helpful; I requested a shower which was my main reason for visiting and was informed
showers were available inside the lounge and given a towel and toiletry kit. I entered the lounge to
find it extremely small for such a large hub and a major alliances lounge. There was one shower
which you had to queue for and no seats became available during the 1 hour wait for the shower to
become free. There was not even an attendant to clean the shower between customers! The food and
beverage selection was atrocious and no reading material was to be found. I have found that all
other Star Alliance partners that I have traveled with extend their business lounge facilities for
Gold card members and I feel cheated the way that Singapore has avoided services that it demands for
it’s Kris members traveling within the alliance. Shame on you Singapore Airlines!
Changi Airport by Z Baker
12 February 2004
I got in at midnight after a 20+ hour flight only to find the transit hotel "did not
receive" my reservation request. Our party of 4 included my 2-year-old, so needless to say I wasn't
too happy at not having a place to sleep while we waited for our 8am flight. Along came an airport
personnel who asked if she could help. She took us to different parts of the airport with lounge
chairs, but they were all taken up by other passengers. She told us about Rainforest, where you can
rent beds for naps -even telling us to avoid it because it was expensive- but that is where we ended
up. Rainforest turned out to be great - I'd almost call it an upscale YMCA - but with 50% off after
midnight, it wasn't too expensive. Sure, Changi is pretty and has lots of shops but what bowled me
over was that friendly and helpful lady.
Changi Airport by Hugues Martel
26 January 2004
Changi is for sure a world class airport compare to European and American airports but it now
seriously suffers from the comparison with airports such as Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur (and probably
Bangkok when the new airport that will be opened).
In the past five years, Changi has suffered from a serious downturn in its efficiency.
Nowadays it is
common to have to wait for 30 minutes at the immigrations when 2 or 3 747s arrives at the same time
and still have to wait to get the luggage. The one level concept for arrival and departure is also
not that good during peak hours.
Changi is severely lacking of a real fast rail link (not the slow MRT) to the city and in-town
checking facilities as in HK or KL
Then overall a very nice airport if you have time to kill and some dollars to spend before you leave
Singapore but definitely not if you look for an airport designed for efficient passenger flow, fast
transfer.
Changi Airport by David Marsden
7 January 2004
Changi represents what I have come to love about air travel today. Style, Speed and simplicity.
Changi is very well laid out, it is extremely beautiful with it's koi ponds and facilities and its
simple layout on arrival.
Changi Airport by Pritam Narula
1 December 2003
Changi Airport is a wonderful, and attractive airport. Beats any other in the whole world.
It never gets boring, even when flying business class I tend not to use to lounge
because the
airport is so colorful and friendly and there are various things to do and see. Swimming, Theater, a
time-zone, High speed cyber cafe, restaraunts, and my personal favorite a upper deck area in T1 that
gives you a overview of T1 and all its planes a runway 02R is in sight so ever 33 seconds is a plane
landing! Changi may not have an intricate architecture but it never gets boring even on 4-7 hour
transits.
Changi Airport by Khaled Elzobeir
17 November 2003
A great airport for a visitor, as well as for a passenger. As someone mentioned, if you get stuck
for 6 or more hours, you don't realy get bored, this have happened to me because of a flight delay.
Great shops, enough restaurants, chairs that almost turn into beds and the washrooms very clean.
Changi Airport by Gigi Rhymer
22 October 2003
Changi is a "visitor's" airport, whereas HKIA is more of an "efficiency" airport.
Consider all the entertainment options Changi offers which HKIA does not. But then, HKIA offers
much better streamlined facilities, such as the straight line arrivals/departures flow, centralised
security checkpoints and double-bridge boarding system. For me as a traveller, efficiency comes
before entertainment any day and that is why HKIA is my preferred transit stop in Asia over
Singapore.
Changi Airport by G Chew
22 October 2003
Changi may not have the architecture KLIA or HKIA does, but offers a better
selection of facilities. A 24 hour supermarket (7/11 at high
street prices) the cinema and outside cacti / sunflower gardens. The MRT only costs a
few dollars, and gets you into Singapore in no time (although with slightly more
hassle than with a
taxi). As it isn't a particulalry big airport, the walks to the gates aren't too big.
Changi Airport by Sam McKinney
21 October 2003
I really don't know why people rave about Changi. the decor is outdated with a colour scheme that is
enough to give you a headache, the ceilings are too low and there is no spacious or airy atmosphere
(unlike Hong Kong). They're still using the again out-dated method of herding the passengers into a
gate area prior to boarding ( I suppose it's a logical extension of the control mentality in
Singapore). Okay they've finally built a MRT link to serve one of the two terminals ( 10 years after
it should have been built) but who is really going to use this apart from staff working at the
airport?
Changi Airport by Michael Smeeton
20 October 2003
Like many I only use Changi as a transit passenger to Europe as I always fly Singapore Airlines.
Changi is one reason why I do this. A fabulous airport where one can be stuck in layover for six or
more hours but never get bored - it just seems to go on forever. And overnight stopovers are great
for buying gifts for relatives and friends. Found it a bit hard to navigate at first and relies on
experience to find your gate so if you're a first time flyer into Changi I remember it being tricky.
Immigration is so quick and easy and everyone smiles and is friendly. Don't like being stuck in the
lounge the whole time so appreciate the myriad of features and entertainment the airport had to
offer. Once I was there and it must have been school holidays as there was a clown entertaining kids
in a food hall.
Changi Airport by Glen Vallance
22 September 2003
A really great airport. Not because it looks good, but because it works well. There's plenty to do
(squeeze in one last Bengawan Solo cake for example) and the layout is good.
A good looking airport is impressive, but being able to arrive in Singapore and get into town
quickly makes Changi great. On the way out, I'm happy to spend a bit of time here.
Changi Airport by Philip Rowell
6 August 2003
I don't see what all the fuss is about. Changi is OK. It's efficient. It's got bookshops. It's got
duty free. What airport doesn't? I don't hate the place; I just don't think it's very exciting. Chek
Lap Kok is way better; just as many facilities, a much more dramatic look and a feeling of
excitement in the architecture and the location. Dubai is also better than Changi; visually it's
much more interesting. I think Changi is good, but there's nothing about it to make it the best in
the world.
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