Changi Airport installs proximity sensors in world’s first as Singapore looks to resuming air travel

Changi Airport is rolling out airport-wide measures – including new contactless and cleaning innovations – to create a safer yet seamless journey for travellers as Singapore gradually resumes air travel.  

New contactless and cleaning innovations at Changi Airport, such as the proximity touch screens, will enhance the health and safety for travellers. Photo courtesy: Changi Airport Group
New contactless and cleaning innovations at Changi Airport, such as the proximity touch screens, will enhance the health and safety for travellers. Photo courtesy: Changi Airport Group

At the airport's automated kiosks, proximity sensors are being installed progressively to eliminate the need for travellers to touch the electronic screens when they check in or drop off their bags.

Used for the first time in any airport, infrared sensors will enable passengers to select options and key in their travel details by pointing their finger close to the screen without touching it. For those who need to check in at counters staffed by customer service agents, acrylic screens will provide a safe barrier between passengers and staff.

Changi’s contactless passenger experience will also extend to immigration.

The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has upgraded the automated immigration lanes with a new biometric system that uses face and iris recognition technology as the primary means for identity verification. This replaces traditional fingerprint scanning.

In addition, autonomous cleaning robots in the terminals have been upgraded with a nozzle that sprays a light disinfecting mist for added protection on carpets and floors during cleaning.

Changi Airport Group (CAG) is also testing the use of ultraviolet-C (UV-C) LEDs to disinfect the handrails of escalators and travellators in a safe way. A trial is also being conducted on the use of contactless infrared technology for passenger lifts, where travellers just need to hover their finger over the lift button to activate it.