Changi Airport Skytrain

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

In 2006, CAAS Crystal Mover Cars have replaced their CX-100 counterparts for the operation of the Changi Airport shuttle.

The Changi Airport Skytrain is a people mover system connecting Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 at Changi Airport, Singapore. Started operation in 1990, the Skytrain was the first auto-guided system in Asia.^[1] Travel is free with the Skytrain, which operates from 6am to 1:30am daily. The waiting time averages 1 to 2 minutes,^[2] the inter-terminal trip takes about 90 seconds. By 2008, the Skytrain will also connect to Terminal 3 when it opens. Stations have platform screen doors and are air conditioned. Operation hours will extend to 24 hours daily in the future.

[edit] History

The construction of the Skytrain system began in 1987 as a joint-venture between Westinghouse Electric and Keppel Corporation.^[3] It started operation in 1990 to coincide the opening of Terminal 2, providing fast and convenient transportation between the two terminals for air travellers, employees of the airport, and other passengers. It was the first auto-guided system in Asia.^[1] As this train was not built by the Land Transport Authority, it is not considered part of the MRT / LRT system.

With the opening of the Changi Airport MRT Station on 8 February 2002, the Skytrain connects Terminal 1 to the Mass Rapid Transit, the main railway system of Singapore. This provides fast connection between the airport and the Central Area and other parts of the country in a convenient and air-conditioned system.^[4]

In 2002, work began on a new S$135 million people mover system to accommodate and planned opening of Terminal 3 and the projected increase in demand as the airport expands.^[5]

Previously, Skytrain used the Bombardier CX-100 Cars which were jointly built by Westinghouse and Adtranz (acquired by Bombardier). They were replaced in 2006 by the Mitsubishi Crystal Movers running along a similar but upgraded route. The third rail, formerly at the centre of the track, was moved to the side.

[edit] Stations

• Terminal 1 Station
• Terminal 2 Station
• 5 other stations in Terminal 1, 2 & 3 will be operational when Terminal 3 opens in 2008.

[edit] References

1. ^ ^{a b} Singapore Changi Airport I, II, III. CPG Corporation.
2. ^ Inter-terminal Transfer. Changi Airport.
3. ^ Milestone. Ministry of Transport, Singapore.
4. ^ Changi International Airport. National Library Board (2001).
5. ^ Milestones of Changi Airport. Changi Airport.