Terminal 4 at Changi Airport (T4) accommodates up to 16 million passengers per annum bringing the total annual passenger capacity of the World’s Best Airport (Skytrax 2018) to 82 million. Opened in October 2017, the terminal offers eco-friendly design elements and digital technologies for a positive passenger experience.

We were appointed by Changi Airport Group (CAG) to conduct and facilitate the design, tendering and project management of the integrated information display system (IIDS) and façade engineering design for T4. We collaborated closely with SAA Architects to deliver the technical and engineering design for the exterior building envelope and the metal roof for the terminal.

Terminal 4’s IIDS and content management system (CMS) ensure timely and accurate information is distributed throughout the entire airport. These systems are an essential part of airport operations and have been designed to support T4’s needs. The façade design includes glazing and sunshades which allows natural light inside while minimising heat gain, keeping visitors comfortable.

Determining smart systems for Terminal 4

We conducted a comprehensive business review which analysed the existing information display systems and operational workflows, market trends and benchmarks from other international airports to determine the most appropriate IIDS solution for T4.

Operational readiness, activation and transition (ORAT) trials

Our team was involved from pre-tendering stage through to testing and commissioning, including operational readiness, activation and transition (ORAT) trials. CAG carried out more than 100 trials with over 2,500 staff and 7,500 volunteers to fully test all aspects of the new terminal. This gave assurance and confidence that all facets of the complex IIDS were operationally ready ahead of the arrival of the first passengers.

Despite the challenging deadline to deliver mission-critical systems, coupled with constraints on the ground, we successfully completed the design to specification.

Information systems keep passengers informed

Complemented by the CMS, Terminal 4’s IIDS provides real-time flight information and engaging content, whether scheduled or on-demand, to displays at check-in counters, arrival hall, baggage collection hall and transit areas to ensure a stress-free passenger experience.

Our ideas put forward in the design process demonstrated how traditional systems such as the IIDS can contribute to passenger comfort.

Integrated information display system (IIDS) keep passengers informed when moving through the terminal

Spacious check in area at Terminal 4

Innovative facade design for comfortable spaces

The facade at T4 incorporates a combination of glazing and sunshades designed to achieve sustainability and energy efficiency while contributing positively to the passenger experience. An important design element for the building envelope involved the use of low iron substrate glass with low emissivity (Low-E) coating to reflect solar heat gain while ensuring minimal colour distortion. This created balanced daylight, reducing glare and improving thermal comfort.

The glazing and sunshades were designed to immerse seamlessly into the façade, serving as a bespoke aesthetical element and adding a distinctive character to the terminal. The aerodynamic shape of the sunshades further ensured the even distribution of light and minimised heat gain.

The skylights across the terminal adopted a trellis design and allowed for ample daylight to penetrate interior spaces, providing an abundance of natural lighting. This unique design directed light into open areas and kept it away from critical workspaces, making the space more comfortable for staff and visitors.

Partners & collaborators

SAA Architects