Unlike some airports in India and China, for example, that are bursting at the seams, the Singapore Changi Airport is equipped to deal with higher traffic. -- ST PHOTO: CHEW SENG KIM

Passenger traffic hit an all-time high of 36.7 million last year - up 4.8 per cent over 2006.

And in the first two months of this year, 6 million passengers have passed through it - an increase of 6.9 per cent over a year ago.

With the impending liberalisation of air traffic within Asean and upcoming mega events like the Formula 1 night race later this year, as well as the opening of the Integrated Resorts, more visitors will come to Singapore, said Transport Minister Raymond Lim at a Changi Airport event on Friday.

By end of this year, the 10-member Asean grouping will lift all restrictions on flights operated by their carriers between capital cities, and by 2010, countries will grant each other 'fifth freedom' or 'beyond' rights.

This means that Singapore Airlines, for example, will be able to fly to Kuala Lumpur, and from there, continue onward to Bangkok, Jakarta or any other destination.

Unlike some airports in India and China, for example, that are bursting at the seams, Changi is equipped to deal with higher traffic.

The existing facilities - Terminals 1, 2, 3 and the Budget Terminal - can together handle up to 70 million passengers a year.

Infrastructure aside, an excellent service standard is key to Changi's success, Mr Lim said, adding: 'In order to stay ahead of the competition, we need to ensure that we continually improve our service standards and exceed the passengers' expectations.'

Mr Lim was at the recently-opened Terminal 3 to present annual awards to staff who have displayed outstanding customer service traits.

Of the 18 who were honoured, one was presented with the coveted service personality of the year award, while the rest received either gold, silver or bronze awards.

Each recipient got Changi shopping vouchers worth between $100 and $1,000, as well as a certificate of commendation.