When Changi Terminal 4 opens in just a few days time, Cathay Pacific will proudly take the title for the first scheduled flight from the terminal. The airline is proudly stating that the terminal will offer an innovative and seamless travel experience, in addition to a spectacular and spacious lounge which will be open for their premium passengers.
Cathay Pacific customers on flight CX659 on 31 October from Hong Kong will be the first to disembark at Terminal 4, arriving in Singapore in the early morning of opening day, while customers on flight CX650 to Hong Kong will be the first to depart, a little over an hour later.
But how will these innovations materialise? Partly due to the technological upgrades to the passenger experience that the terminal is boasting. Terminal 4 will offer Cathay Pacific customers an integrated suite of self-service options, reducing queueing time and speeding up the process right through to boarding.
For an airline that bases itself on its premium service, passengers will now be able to check-in, drop off their bag, clear immigration and board using fully automated systems, meaning less opportunity for interaction with Cathay Pacific’s famous staff. But the airline hopes that the automation will help ensure a seamless, stress-free passage and allow passengers greater control over how they spend their time at the terminal. Naturally staff are still on hand to support customers should they need assistance.
Cathay Pacific Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Greg Hughes said: “We are always looking at ways to enhance our customers’ experience at every stage of their journey with us, and the airport experience is a very important and integral part of that journey.
“The benefits that result from adopting advanced facial recognition technology and other automated systems are going to make a real difference and we’re excited to soon be providing our customers with increased options and greater convenience.”
For those in Business Class, or premium level Marco Polo members or Oneworld elite status members, there is also one of the largest lounges outside of Hong Kong, featuring the airline’s signature ‘residential’ feel, catering to more than 200 customers.
Designer furniture and lighting has been carefully selected for practicality, comfort and privacy, while the use of natural materials, plenty of greenery and artworks by local artists add to the lounge’s welcoming atmosphere.
There is also a strong focus on food and beverage services, with the dining area featuring Cathay Pacific’s iconic Noodle Bar, offering a selection of freshly prepared Asian dishes including its signature Dan Dan Noodles and local favourite, Singapore Laksa.
Added Mr Hughes: “We place great value in listening to our customers and investing in products and services that are important to them. The lounge echoes the warmth, natural features and array of amenities that have proved so successful in many of our other lounges around the world, and we can’t wait to welcome our first guests upon the opening of Terminal 4.”
TheDesignAir 