Singapore’s Changi Airport will soon introduce a lounge dedicated to fly-cruise, fly-coach and fly-ferry passengers.
To be located in the upcoming Jewel lifestyle hub, the “multi-modal transport lounge” will feature travel services such as ticketing and shuttle services to the cruise terminal, as well as passenger waiting areas.
The lounge will be managed by Changi Airport Group (CAG), which is currently in partnership talks with Royal Caribbean for this project.
Sean Treacy, Royal Caribbean’s managing director, Asia-Pacific, explained: “The lounge will be a place for cruise guests to relax before heading to the port, and for them to check in their luggage so they can remain free and easy. It is still being built. Royal Caribbean is keen on trialling it and we are still talking to them about how that’s going to work.
“This is still very early stages, but it is an exciting project because as a brand and company we are very focused on providing a seamless check-in and disembarkation process (for our customers).”
Ivan Tan, a spokesperson for the CAG, explained: “The cruise industry has been growing steadily, with passenger throughput at a high of 1.38 million in 2017. For fly-cruise specifically, CAG has signed various collaborations with cruise companies. This will allow airlines to capitalise on the opportunities presented by these passenger segments to enrich traffic sources and grow demand.
“With Changi Airport’s strong air connectivity, the multi-modal transport lounge at Jewel Changi Airport will strengthen Singapore’s position as a preferred hub for the region.”
Jewel, which is slated to open in the first half of 2019, will also include early check-in aviation facilities for travellers who arrive at the airport early. This will allow them to deposit their luggage and explore Jewel or terminal facilities prior to their flights.
- additional reporting from Karen Yue
