Singapore will be allowing travelers to transit through Changi Airport with effect from June 2.
The move is part of the island state's strategy to gradually re-open air transport to meet the needs of the economy and residents, while ensuring sufficient safeguards for safe travel.
In a press statement, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said airlines can now submit their proposals for transfer lanes through Changi Airport. The proposals will be evaluated taking into account aviation safety, public health considerations, as well as the health of passengers and air crew.
Currently, foreign passengers may only transit through Singapore if they are on repatriation flights arranged by their governments. This decision by CAAS will allow passengers to transit through Singapore more easily.
The authority added that as a precaution, stringent measures will be instituted to ensure that the transit passengers remain in designated facilities in the transit area. This is so that they do not mix with other passengers at Changi Airport.
Airport staff will also be required to wear personal protective equipment when interacting with passengers. Existing precautionary measures, such as safe distancing, temperature taking for passengers and staff, will continue to be enforced.