Bridge bearing replacement work will extend the lifespan of key airport infrastructure.
Changi Airport Group (CAG) is strengthening four bridges at Changi Airport by mid-2024, including two aircraft taxiway bridges and two vehicle flyovers. The upgrade will extend their lifespan by 30 to 40 years. This marks the first time the airport is replacing the bridge bearings, a critical component for stability.
The bridges, built in 1981 when Changi Airport first opened, will be closed one at a time for maintenance. The closures will redirect traffic to alternative routes, with minimal disruption during off-peak periods.
The two aircraft taxiway bridges, located on the five-lane Airport Boulevard, are crucial links for aircraft movement between the western and eastern halves of the airport. These bridges can support the Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft, and feature jet blast deflecting fins to protect motorists from strong jet blasts.
The vehicle flyovers undergoing maintenance connect the airport to the city and provide access to the airport’s restricted zone. These flyovers, each 144 meters long, were also built in 1981.
Since 2021, engineers have recommended replacing the carbon steel bearings, which are crucial for even load distribution and structural stability. CAG began the strengthening works in early 2023, employing specialized machinery to raise the bridges for the bearing replacement process. It takes about four weeks to replace the bearings on each vehicle bridge.
CAG has also implemented annual checks for the structural integrity of these bridges to ensure long-term safety. Despite the necessary closures, the airport aims to minimize the impact on operations and travelers.
