The Story of Changi Airport
From a single terminal in 1981 to the World's Best Airport 12 times over — discover how Singapore Changi became the gold standard in global aviation. Explore Jewel and the free attractions that make Changi a destination in itself.
100+
Airlines
400+
Cities Connected
69.98M
Passengers (2024)
12+
World's Best Awards
4
Terminals
1981
Year Opened
More Than an Airport
Singapore Changi Airport is not just a transit point — it's a destination. Designed to make every journey memorable, Changi has redefined what an airport can be, blending nature, technology, and world-class hospitality. Download the Changi App to experience it digitally.
Built on reclaimed land at the eastern tip of Singapore, Changi opened on 1 July 1981 to replace the congested Paya Lebar Airport. From the very start, the vision was bold: to build an airport that Singapore could be proud of — one that would set new standards for passenger experience.
Four decades later, with 69.98 million passengers in 2024, 100+ airlines, and connections to 400+ cities worldwide, Changi has exceeded that vision many times over. Check live flights to see today's operations.
Changi Through the Years
Over four decades of innovation, expansion, and recognition.
Changi Airport Opens
Terminal 1 begins operations on 1 July, replacing Paya Lebar Airport. First flight departs for Kuala Lumpur.
Terminal 2 Opens
Expansion doubles capacity. T2 introduces the world's first airport butterfly garden concept and Skytrain people mover.
World's Best Airport
Changi wins its first Skytrax World's Best Airport award, beginning a decade of dominance in global airport rankings.
Terminal 3 Opens
The 380,000 sqm terminal introduces natural skylights, a bamboo garden, and the iconic Butterfly Garden.
Terminal 4 Debuts
A boutique terminal with fully automated check-in, biometric immigration, and the Wonderfall digital waterfall.
Jewel Changi Airport
The S$1.7 billion Jewel opens with the 40m Rain Vortex, Forest Valley, and 280+ retail and dining outlets.
T2 Refurbishment Complete
Fully refurbished T2 wins Prix Versailles 2024. The Wonderfall digital waterfall and new gardens redefine airport design.
T5 Construction Begins
Terminal 5 construction starts — designed for 50 million passengers annually, set to open in the mid-2030s.
Awards & Accolades
The most decorated airport in the world, recognised by Skytrax and global travellers year after year.
12+
World's Best Airport
Skytrax
15+
Best Airport in Asia
Skytrax
8
Best Airport Dining
Skytrax
10+
Best Airport Leisure
Skytrax
Changi Airport has won the Skytrax World's Best Airport award more than any other airport in history. It has also been recognised for Best Airport Dining, Best Airport Leisure Amenities, Best Airport in Asia, and World's Cleanest Airport. In 2024, Terminal 2 won the prestigious Prix Versailles for airport architecture.
Five Unique Worlds
Each terminal has its own character and design language — from the kinetic art of T1 to the nature wonderland of Jewel.
Terminal 1
The Original
Home to Kinetic Rain — 1,216 bronze droplets choreographed in mesmerising patterns. Recently upgraded with the iconic Viewing Mall.
Terminal 2
Nature & Wonder
Fully refurbished in 2024 with the Wonderfall digital waterfall, Sunflower Garden, Enchanted Garden, and Orchid Garden. Prix Versailles 2024 winner.
Terminal 3
Light & Space
Natural skylights filter through a bamboo-inspired roof. Features the Butterfly Garden, Sculptural Tree, and Lily Garden.
Terminal 4
Boutique & Automated
Fully automated from check-in to boarding. Heritage Zone with Peranakan shophouse facades. The Wonderfall immersive wall.
Jewel
Nature Meets Innovation
The S$1.7 billion gem connecting T1, T2 and T3. 40m Rain Vortex, Forest Valley with 900+ trees, 280+ shops and dining outlets.
Explore Changi Airport
Discover everything Changi has to offer — from free attractions to world-class dining.