Singapore’s Changi Airport Group (CAG) has begun the process of upgrading the 3th runway that is currently under operation by the military forces to be opened up for passenger aircraft by 2020, after awarding a US$847.25 million contract to a joint venture formed by Koh Brothers and Samsung C&T Corporation.

Changi Airport currently operates two runways, which serve its three terminals and the upcoming Terminal 4. The 3th runway will be converted for joint civil-military use to ensure adequate runway capacity for the future Terminal 5 and the airport’s anticipated traffic growth.

CAG vice president Yam Kum stated : “In addition to terminal capacity, airfield capacity is a critical determinant of an airport’s growth potential.”

The scope of the work awarded to the JV includes pavement, drainage, mechanical and electrical works, and supporting works like road diversions. The safety and of the airfield will be enhanced through the construction of canals and drainage systems to keep surface water at bay on the runway and taxiways.

Also lighting and surveillance and detection systems will be installed at the airport and construction of airfield lighting control centres and a fire station will planned.