Jewel Changi Airport finally opens to the public for a first glimpse inside the complex. The 10-story structure is worth $1.7 billion and it was built to achieve Singapore's goal of securing the top position as the premier air hub in the world.
The construction of the Jewel Changi Airport was first announced in 2013 during the National Day Rally. In his speech during the event, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said that the government is transforming the open-air carpark into a complex with leisure attractions, shops, and facilities for tourists and visitors.
"The stunning result is a mixed-use development with gardens, attractions, retail, dining, a hotel and facilities to support airport operations," the statement describing the Jewel Changi Airport reads. "This integration of nature with engineering marvels housed under a striking glass and steel dome is poised to make headlines."
In any case, it was stated that the preview of the Jewel Changi Airport will only run for six days from April 11 to Aprill 16. It will be open from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. only and throughout the preview days, it is expected that around 500,000 people will visit since they already signed up for free preview tickets.
Visitors can expect to see 280 shops and restaurants inside this 135,700 square meter structure. Plus, there are an indoor waterfall and a forest of greeneries.
The Jewel Changi Airport is located near Singapore's Terminal 1 and it is connected to Terminals 2 and 3. These are linked by travellators that are equipped with facilities where travelers can store their luggage 24/7.
Mr. Shukor Yusof, an aviation analyst at Endau Analytics told The Straits Times, "Jewel is an extension of Changi's constant move to stay relevant and profitable. It is a new landmark for the best airport in the world."
Mr. Jayson Goh Changi, Airport Group's (CAG) managing director for airport operations management added that with the demand for air travel in Asia and the competition among the airports are growing as well, "Jewel is a key part of Changi's strategy to improve the airport experience and grow traffic."
He added, "If you are flying through Asia and looking to make a stopover, you can choose from several airports. We want to make sure Changi Airport continues to provide the capacity, attractions, and amenities to cater for this growth."
Finally, as per The New York Times, visitors can enjoy many attractions in the Jewel Changi Airport like the Forest Valley with a terraced garden with the Rain Vortex waterfall located in its midst. There is also the Canopy Park at the top floor and visitors can try walking in the 165-foot sky bridge, mirror and hedge mazes, a giant slide and walking nets.
