Forum: Slow baggage handling at Changi Airport deserves urgent attention
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The efficiency of baggage handling at Changi Airport – once a point of pride – seems to have declined noticeably since the Covid-19 pandemic, and my experience shows this is not an isolated issue but a recurring problem.
On Nov 17, I arrived on Flight SQ11 at 12.37am.
Immigration clearance was swift, but luggage delivery was far too slow. At 1.12am, many passengers were still waiting, visibly frustrated.
The first 20 or so bags arrived quickly, but the other passengers faced delays of 15 minutes or more before the next batch appeared.
I have encountered the same slow, uneven handling on numerous occasions in recent years, pointing to what seems to be a systemic problem.
If Changi’s performance is measured only by “first bag on belt” timing, the results would be misleading. True efficiency should be assessed by looking at how long it takes for the last bag to reach the carousel, starting from when the aircraft arrives at its gate.
By comparison, airports such as Tokyo’s Haneda often have luggage ready even before passengers clear immigration.
These delays seriously mar the passenger and tourist experience, creating a poor first impression for visitors stepping into Singapore.
This matter should receive urgent attention. Travellers deserve consistent efficiency that reflects Changi’s standing as one of the world’s best airports.
Cheong Kah Wai
