Changi Airport has reopened to passengers.

The airport will implement safety measures to manage the flow of travelers as the number of visitors is expected to increase due to Singapore's gradual easing of entry regulations. Specifically, only arriving travelers and professional service providers will be allowed into the airport's arrival hall. However, restaurants, food service establishments, and retail shops in Terminal 3 will remain temporarily closed during this period.

Earlier in May, terminals T1 and T3, along with Jewel Changi (an extension of Changi Airport), had to close when a COVID-19 outbreak was detected at terminal T3, with 108 cases, including 43 airport staff. During this time, the entire air conditioning and ventilation system in the terminal was upgraded.

These are preparatory steps as Singapore cautiously reopens its borders. The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and Changi Airport Group (CAG) believe it is essential to ensure Changi Airport remains a safe airport for travelers arriving and transiting. Therefore, CAAS will continue to review airport safety procedures based on the COVID-19 situation.

Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry also stated that the country will gradually facilitate further travel through other initiatives, such as travel corridors for vaccinated individuals.

The island nation has also opened a "green lane" for vaccinated travelers from Germany and Brunei to enter Singapore without quarantine, provided they have certified negative Covid-19 test results on a required number of occasions. Meanwhile, short-term visitors from Hong Kong, mainland China (excluding Jiangsu province), and Taiwan can enter Singapore without quarantine under the air travel pass scheme.

As of August 31st, approximately 80% of Singapore's population had completed two doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, and about 83% had received at least one dose. Experts in the country cautioned that while the 80% vaccination rate is a "remarkable achievement," Singapore should not rush to lift all lockdown restrictions at once, as the phased reopening strategy remains effective.

Huyen Chau - Photo: Internet