Changi Airport’s New Playground: Fun for Everyone!
When you think of airports, you probably picture jet engines and long security lines. But at Changi Airport’s Terminal 4 (T4) something extra exciting is happening – a brand‑new playground is ready to welcome both kids and adults alike. The launch came just a few minutes after T4 officially opened on Oct 31.
What’s Inside the Playground?
- Chandelier – the playground’s nickname, which is a gigantic structure that hangs from the ceiling and is anchored to the floor.
- About 10 km of rope that forms a climbing net where you can climb and swing.
- A 2‑metre pole that lets you slide down – it’s split into intervals so you and your friends can take turns.
- Over 15 tonnes of steel keep everything sturdy and safe.
It can host up to 50 people at once, so the line can get a little busy – but so what? It’s all about the fun.
Why This Matters to the Terminal
Terminal 4 houses 11 airlines, including Cathay Pacific and the AirAsia group. It was built over four years of planning and construction, and its addition gives Changi the power to handle up to 82 million passengers a year. By comparison, in 2017 the airport saw a record 62.2 million travelers – and that number keeps climbing.
A Sneak Peek at Future Tech
Beyond the playground, T4 is a living lab for the yet‑to‑come Terminal 5. It’s the first place where passengers experience full end‑to‑end automation – from checking in, tagging bags, clearing immigration using facial recognition, to boarding the plane. The catch? If you skip the automated immigration step, you’ll need to head to a staffed counter to finish boarding.
During the first weeks after opening, some travelers got a bit confused about this system. The airport quickly installed clear sign-boards and videos at the boarding area – and since then the process has been smooth.
And the Numbers Speak For Themselves
- Between January and June this year, 32.1 million passengers flew through Changi – a 5.5 % increase over the same period last year.
- Each new terminal like T4 is a step toward keeping pace with an ever‑growing travel demand until the giant T5 comes online around 2030.
So next time you’re at Changi, remember: it’s not just about flying. Bring the little ones (or just your inner child) and enjoy a playground that’s just a stone’s throw away from the gates. It’s a reminder that airports are more than just transit hubs – they’re places of discovery, comfort, and yes, a little bit of pure, overdue fun.
