After concluding our final dinner at Robertson Quay in Singapore, I sensed that a considerable amount of time had passed. As we needed to head to the airport for our departure, a growing sense of urgency enveloped us. There was a concern about potentially arriving late at the airport and missing our flight.
Navigating the Airport Journey with Limited Time
Our flight was scheduled to depart at 12:10 AM, giving us what seemed like ample time. However, considering the recommended early arrival time of about 2 hours before departure, we aimed to reach the airport by around 10 PM.
Upon checking the departure time and using public transportation to reach Singapore Changi Airport, we realized that, even if we hurried, we would only have approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of buffer time. Acknowledging the time constraints, we swiftly made our way to the airport.
Changi Airport’s Flight Information Online
Similar to Incheon International Airport in South Korea, Singapore Changi Airport provides flight information on its website. By entering the flight number, passengers can access details such as the departure terminal and boarding gate.
To save time, we checked this information online while commuting on the subway. We arrived at the airport, navigated through it efficiently, and successfully checked in without any delays.
Departure Procedures at Singapore Changi Airport
Given the late-night hour, the airport was not overly crowded. This worked to our advantage as we smoothly underwent departure screening. Singapore Changi Airport differs from Incheon Airport in the sequence of departure procedures:
- Arrival at the Airport
- Obtaining a stamp at the GST refund counter before checking in luggage
- Airline check-in
- Receiving GST refund
- Entering the duty-free area
- Airport security check and departure screening
- Boarding the airplane
In contrast to Incheon Airport, where passengers typically complete check-in, deposit luggage, undergo departure screening, and item inspection before entering the duty-free area, Changi Airport allows entry into the duty-free area immediately after airline check-in. Shopping can be done before undergoing departure screening and luggage inspection just before boarding.
In my case, since I didn’t engage in much shopping in Singapore, the GST refund process was not applicable, and I could proceed without it.
After shopping in the duty-free area and determining that there was nothing else to explore, we underwent the final departure screening and luggage check before entering the boarding gate area. With approximately 40 minutes left until boarding, it felt like we entered the gate area too early, leaving a sense of regret.
Conclusion of the 3 Nights, 5 Days Singapore Trip
This marked the end of my first international trip. The return journey was also via Singapore Airlines. Although our itinerary was set for 3 nights and 5 days, considering the late-night flight at 12:10 AM, the practical travel duration was closer to 3 nights and 4 days.
While Singapore is a small country, the time spent there felt insufficient. Even though I initially thought that 3 nights and 4 days would be enough, the reality proved otherwise. The trip left me with the lingering impression that I need to visit Singapore again. While there were some aspects of this first international trip that could be improved upon, I believe the next journey will allow for enhancements based on lessons learned.
”Singapore Changi International Airport“
- Address: Airport Blvd, Singapore
- Phone: +65 6595 6868
- Website: http://www.changiairport.com