The recent announcement by Changi Airport Group and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) reveals that Changi Airport will be implementing gradual increases in charges for passengers and airlines over the next six years. The key changes include a rise in charges for departing passengers and arriving flights, as well as adjustments to transfer and transit fees.
Changi Airport CEO, Yam Kum Weng, emphasized the need for these adjustments by stating, “We have been very careful to calibrate the increase to ensure that Changi stays competitive.”
Passengers departing from Changi Airport will see a significant increase in fees from the current S$46.40 to S$58.40 by April 2030. Additionally, transfer and transit fees, currently at S$6 per passenger, will triple to S$18. Quoting the report, “Other than the service and security fee, passengers who depart from Changi Airport will also have to pay a one-time increase in aviation levy from April 2027. This has been raised from S$8 to S$10.”
Changes in charges for airlines include higher landing, parking, and aerobridge fees. For example, a narrow-body Airbus A320 aircraft will see an increase in charges per landing over the next six years, as highlighted by Mr Jeffrey Loke, senior vice president of pricing and commercial strategy at Changi Airport Group, who stated, “In context, the annual increase for a narrow-body (A320) works out to between 40 cents to 80 cents per seat.”
Responding to concerns about Singapore’s competitiveness as an air hub, CAAS director-general Han Kok Juan expressed confidence in Singapore’s position, stating, “Aviation is existential for Singapore. We will not let the air hub fail.” Juan also addressed the staged increase in fees and rebates offered to airlines to aid in the transition.
In conclusion, the adjustments in charges and levies are aimed at supporting Changi Airport’s infrastructure investments and ensuring its long-term competitiveness in the aviation industry.
