In exciting news for commuters, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced a new MRT station at Changi Airport Terminal 5, linking it with the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) and Cross Island Line (CRL). This development is set for completion alongside Terminal 5 in the mid-2030s, aiming to enhance connectivity and shorten travel times for passengers.
Direct City Links
The new interchange station will form part of the Thomson-East Coast Line extension (TELe), offering a direct rail link from Changi Airport to key areas like Gardens by the Bay, Maxwell, and Orchard. Commuters will see substantial time savings—travel to Ang Mo Kio, for example, will take approximately 45 minutes, down from 60 minutes.
Integration with Existing Lines
- Tanah Merah, Expo, and Changi Airport stations are being converted to TEL stations.
- Modifications began in 2016 at Tanah Merah to facilitate the interchange with the East-West Line (EWL).
- Work includes building new viaducts, expanding the concourse, and retrofitting platform systems.
Future-Proofing Transit
The enhancements aren’t just about new stations—they require intricate modifications to ensure smooth operations. “Converting existing rail stations from one line to another requires extensive modifications and careful planning,” the LTA stated, emphasising the importance of systems integration for a seamless commuter experience.
Service Adjustments Ahead
As works progress, commuters should be prepared for some train service adjustments. Details on these changes will be shared by LTA as the project nears completion.
With Changi Airport poised to handle an additional 50 million passengers annually, this new station and the overall expansion of the rail network herald a new era of convenience for Singapore’s transport landscape.