Introduction
From its humble beginnings as a British trading post, Singapore has quickly established itself as a vibrant aviation hub in Southeast Asia. With its world-class infrastructure, efficient customs and immigration processes, and its proximity to major cities across Asia and beyond, it is no surprise that the country boasts an impressive aviation history. Here, we trace back to the very beginning and take a look at Singapore’s first flight that set the stage for the country’s vibrant aviation industry today.
Tracing Singapore’s Aviation History
Long before the hustle and bustle of Changi Airport, Singapore’s first civil aviation facility was Kallang Airport. Built in 1937, the airport was located in the middle of a swamp, and was the primary base for the British Far East Flying Training School during World War II. After the war, the airport was upgraded and saw the arrival of Singapore’s first commercial airline, Malayan Airways, in 1947. The airline later rebranded as Malaysian Airlines in 1972 and continued to operate within Singapore until 2013 when it ceased operations.
A Look Back at Singapore’s First Flight
Singapore’s first flight took place on 15 February 1947, when the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) launched its service from the United Kingdom to Singapore via Cairo, Karachi, and Calcutta. The inaugural flight touched down at Kallang Airport with a total of 46 passengers and 4 crew members. Among them included Singapore’s first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, and Deputy Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman.
The historic flight marked a milestone in Singapore’s aviation history and signified the start of Singapore’s transformation into a global aviation hub. To commemorate the event, a memorial plaque was installed at Kallang Airport to commemorate the inaugural flight.
Celebrating Singapore’s Aviation Milestone
Today, Changi Airport stands proudly as one of the world’s most connected airports, serving over 100 airlines and 62 million passengers in 2019 alone. The airport has also been voted the World’s Best Airport by Skytrax for eight consecutive years, and is home to ground-breaking initiatives like the Jewel Changi Airport and world-class experiences like the Changi Experience Studio.
As Singapore celebrates its 54th birthday on 9 August 2020, it is a fitting tribute to the country’s aviation history and the momentous first flight that kicked off its transformation into a vibrant aviation hub.
Conclusion
Singapore’s aviation history is one that is deeply entrenched in the country’s transformation from a British trading post to a vibrant and global aviation hub. While the first flight in 1947 marked the beginning of this transformation, the country is now home to one of the world’s most connected airports and is a leader in the aviation industry. As Singapore celebrates its 54th birthday this year, it is a fitting tribute to the momentous first flight that kicked off its journey.
0 Comments