SINGAPORE. The construction of Singapore Changi Terminal 5, planned for completion around 2030, will be delayed by two years due to the impact of COVID-19, according to Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan.
Speaking about the post-COVID-19 world on a Zoom call this week, he said that “inevitably there will be delays” to major infrastructure projects in Singapore. He cited the shortage of overseas workers as among the factors in delaying current projects.
“In the case of T5,” he added, “there is the added complication of ascertaining the pace of post-COVID-19 aviation recovery.
“We are confident that air traffic will return; the uncertainty is how quickly it will be. Analysts’ projections range from two to five years. We are doing our own study, in consultation with experts and stakeholders. We will do a thorough study on air travel demand and the design of T5, including the possibility of re-designing certain parts to make sure air travel will be safe. Hence, the decision to take a pause of two years on T5 implementation. This is the prudent thing to do, given the current circumstances.”
As reported, Changi Airport suspended operations at Terminal 4 from 16 May, having already halted operations at Terminal 2 from 1 May due to the pandemic.
