When one thinks of impressive airports, Singapore’s Changi Airport might just pop into mind, and for good reason. This magnificent structure has been crowned the best airport in the world for 13 consecutive years, and it’s not just a title; it has a spectacular indoor waterfall, a butterfly garden, and even dinosaurs for travelers to enjoy. With nearly 60 million travelers bustling through its four terminals every year, Changi isn’t just a stopover; it’s a destination in its own right.

Now, in a bold move to keep the good times rolling and maintain its top-ranking status, plans are in place for a stunning fifth terminal that comes with a price tag of over $8 billion. This mega terminal is designed to ensure that Changi remains a critical travel hub, even during challenging times like a pandemic. It’s expected that air traffic in the Asia Pacific will rise by approximately 5% every year, and Changi is eager to claim its share of those globetrotting travelers. Once completed in the mid-2030s, Terminal 5 will expand the airport’s capacity by more than 50%, accommodating a staggering 140 million passengers annually.

However, construction of the new terminal does not come without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic managed to delay the project by two years, giving the designers some unexpected extra time. Instead of kicking back with a cup of coffee, they took the opportunity to rethink and redesign the plans for the terminal. The new, modular design allows it to be split into smaller sections, which could be crucial for maintaining safety during potential future pandemics. Additionally, the redesign allows more natural light to flood the terminal, which is always a bonus for travel-weary eyes.

But that’s not all—Changi is going green! The new terminal will be powered by clean energy from solar panels, producing enough energy to power around 20,000 apartments in Singapore for an entire year. That’s some serious sustainability! The Singapore government is ensuring that resources are plentiful for the development, topping up the Changi Airport Development Fund with $5 billion. All of this hefty spending sends a clear message: Changi Airport is not just a transit point; it’s a premier destination worthy of a traveler’s time.

Changi has gone above and beyond to provide a stellar experience for its visitors. The Jewel, a $1 billion luxury mall, is at the heart of the airport complex, boasting over 260 shops and restaurants, as well as the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. This stunning attraction welcomes millions of visitors each year, turning what could have been a mundane airport experience into a delightful adventure. A free 24-hour movie theater, indoor maze, climbing wall, and abundant plant life create an ambiance that’s hard to beat. It’s even designed with the average traveler in mind, allowing for efficient movement through various touchpoints, all thanks to advanced automation features like passport-less clearance that takes a mere 10 seconds.

Ultimately, Singapore’s Changi Airport represents much more than just a travel hub; it symbolizes the nation’s commitment to excellence, cleanliness, and modernity. As the countdown to the opening of Terminal 5 begins, the aviation world watches closely. It’s clear that Singapore is not just resting on its laurels but is determined to continue its reign as the crown jewel of international airports for years to come.