Changi Airport must stay relevant, upgrade and adapt for
the future: MM
Stay relevant and competitive in the changing environment.
That's the call by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew at Changi Airport's
25th anniversary dinner.
He said Changi Airport must continue to upgrade and adapt for the
challenges ahead.
At the same time, Singapore will continue to liberalise air
services agreements with China, India and ASEAN nations to
encourage the growth of both Singapore and foreign carriers
here.
Changi Airport has come a long way since it opened in 1981.
Passenger traffic has increased 4-fold and cargo traffic grown by
more than 9 times.
Two terminals are in full service, with Terminal 3 due to open in
early 2008.
There is also a budget terminal.
Changi Airport is now a Singapore icon, having received more than
250 awards and accolades over the years, including World's Best
Airport for 18 years running.
As with all icons of success, MM Lee reminded Changi Airport staff
that previous achievements are no guarantee of its growth in the
future.
There is keen competition from newer and bigger airports in the
region for Changi's hub position, Mr Lee said.
Mr Lee also lauded the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)
for responding well to these challenges, by taking steps to keep
airport costs competitive.
He said: "As our international gateway, Changi Airport gives all
visitors a splendid introduction to the way Singapore works.
"Changi's international recognition is a valuable and visible
extension of Singapore's reputation for excellence, reliability and
dependability.
"To stay relevant and competitive in this changing environment,
this can be achieved only through the collective efforts of all in
the airport community.
"No vision will be realised if we do not have committed and
competent people in charge and supported by a cluster of
organisations. Only together can they make Changi Airport the
world's best airport."
Mr Lee said that the success of Changi Airport, Singapore Airlines
and the industry's related sectors have all contributed
significantly to Singapore's economic growth.
It is estimated that the industry accounts for more than 200,000
jobs or about 9% of Singapore's gross domestic product. -
CNA/ir
