Singapore Changi Airport Guide
Singapore is served by Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world. Changi Airport features four main terminals with world-class amenities, making it not just a transit point but a destination in itself.
Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
SIN
Location: 20 km northeast of Singapore city center
Best for: International travel, long layovers, premium experience
Transport: MRT, buses, taxis, ride-hailing, airport shuttles
Airlines: Singapore Airlines, Scoot, major international carriers
Features: Jewel waterfall, rooftop pool, movie theaters, gardens
Navigating Changi Airport
- Terminal 1: Handles various international airlines
- Terminal 2: Recently renovated, serves multiple carriers
- Terminal 3: Singapore Airlines hub, luxury shopping
- Terminal 4: Modern terminal with automated processes
- Jewel Changi: Mixed-use development with attractions, accessible to public
- Skytrain: Free service connecting all terminals
- Transport Time: Airport to city: 20-40 minutes
Airlines That Fly to Singapore
Singapore is a major global aviation hub with extensive international service from all continents, served by both full-service and low-cost carriers.
Major Singapore-based Airlines
- Singapore Airlines (Flag carrier with extensive global network)
- Scoot (Low-cost carrier medium and long-haul routes)
- Jetstar Asia (Low-cost carrier focused on regional routes)
- Singapore Airlines Cargo (Leading air cargo carrier)
Major International Airlines
- Qantas (Direct flights from Australian cities)
- British Airways (Direct flights from London)
- Lufthansa (Direct flights from Frankfurt and Munich)
- Air France (Direct flights from Paris)
- KLM (Direct flights from Amsterdam)
- Emirates (Direct flights from Dubai)
- Qatar Airways (Direct flights from Doha)
- Etihad Airways (Direct flights from Abu Dhabi)
- United Airlines (Direct flights from US hubs)
- All Nippon Airways (Direct flights from Tokyo)
- Japan Airlines (Direct flights from Japanese cities)
- Cathay Pacific (Direct flights from Hong Kong)
- Thai Airways (Direct flights from Bangkok)
- Air India (Direct flights from Indian cities)
- Garuda Indonesia (Direct flights from Indonesian cities)
- Malaysia Airlines (Direct flights from Kuala Lumpur)
Frequently Asked Questions About Singapore Flights
How far is Changi Airport from Singapore city center?
Singapore Changi Airport is approximately 20 km from the city center, with travel time typically 20-40 minutes depending on traffic and transport method.
What is the cheapest month to fly to Singapore?
February and September typically offer the lowest airfares to Singapore, as these are outside peak travel seasons. Avoid December holidays and June-August school holidays for better prices.
How early should I arrive at Changi Airport for international flights?
For international flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure. During peak travel seasons or if checking baggage, consider arriving 2.5-3 hours early.
Which airlines offer direct flights to Singapore from the US?
Singapore Airlines offers direct flights from New York (JFK) and Los Angeles (LAX) to Singapore. United Airlines also operates direct flights from San Francisco. Other carriers offer one-stop services via their hubs.
What is the best way to get from Changi Airport to the city?
The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) is the most affordable option, taking about 30 minutes to city center. Taxis, Grab (ride-hailing), and airport shuttles are also available. The MRT station is connected to all terminals.
Are there free tours available for transit passengers at Changi?
Yes, Changi Airport offers free Singapore tours for transit passengers with layovers of 5.5-24 hours. Registration is required and subject to availability. There are both heritage and city sightseeing tours.
What is the flight time from London to Singapore?
The direct flight from London to Singapore takes approximately 13 hours.
Do I need a visa to visit Singapore?
Many nationalities including US, UK, Canadian, Australian, and EU citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits up to 90 days. Always check current entry requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
What are the busiest travel days at Changi Airport?
Fridays and Sundays are typically the busiest days. School holiday periods (June, December), Chinese New Year, and major events see extremely high passenger volume.
Is Singapore safe for tourists?
Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world for tourists. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft in crowded areas, but violent crime is extremely rare. The city has excellent public safety and clean facilities.