SINGAPORE - Changi Airport will close Runway 2 temporarily from Oct 25, 2020, Changi Airport Group (CAG) said on Monday (Nov 4).

When this happens, the airport will continue its operations using Runways 1 and 3, CAG said.

Runway 3 will be operational at the same time when runway 2 is temporarily closed, to allow a transition in operations.

Runway 2 will be closed temporarily to ensure safety of flight operations during the next phase of infrastructure works for the Changi East project.

"These works are needed to complete Changi Airport's fifth terminal, the Changi East Industrial Zone and supporting facilities by the early 2030s, and to operationalise a three-runway system by the mid-2020s," CAG said.

In 2015, Changi Airport awarded a $1.12 billion contract to develop a three-runway system that would allow for more flights to be handled as demand for air travel increased.

After Runway 2 is re-opened, the airport will have three operational runways for commercial flights.

CAG said it will work closely with stakeholders including the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, airlines and ground handlers to ensure a smooth and safe transition of runway operations at the airport.

Flights assigned to Runway 3 may face a longer taxiing time due to its longer distance from the terminals, CAG added.