Singapore will shut Terminal 2 of the Changi Airport as part of a cost-cutting move due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has seriously affected the country’s tourism industry.
All operations at the terminal, including retail, will be suspended for 18 months starting May, Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan reportedly announced in Parliament today. He also hinted at more closures, noting that only one terminal has so far been enough to handle the traffic at the airport.
Airlines operating at the terminal will be transferred to Changi’s remaining three terminals next month. Singapore Airlines will operate from Terminal 3.
“We will save on running costs – for the airport operator, retail tenants, airlines and ground handlers,” The Straits Times quoted him as saying.
On a more positive note, Khaw said that Terminal 2’s closure could help to speed up expansion works for the terminal that was originally slated for completion in 2024. He said that the closure could shorten the refurbishment period by up to a year.
Hundreds of flights have been canceled due to strict travel restrictions worldwide in a bid to contain the spread of COVID-19. Singapore’s national carrier announced last month it would cut flight capacity by 50 percent.
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