(SPOT.ph) If it's your first time to travel from the Philippines' Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Singapore's Changi Airport (and vice versa), you may notice that when it comes to technology, there's a world of difference between the two. (Or two, since we're a third-world country. *ba-dum-tss*) There's a check-in lounge for early birds, fully automated check-in counters and bag drops, and digital immigration booths. Long queues are just unthinkable in Singapore's ports.
In early October, it was announced by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority that they would be starting a three-month trial for the use of electronic arrival cards. The scheme started on October 4 at Changi Airport, the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, and the four cruise terminals, namely: Singapore Cruise Centre, Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Changi Point Ferry Terminal, and Changi Ferry Terminal.
The Singapore Tourism Board tells SPOT.ph, however, that you don't have to fill out online forms just yet because flight attendants will still be distributing arrival cards before you land in Singapore—for now. "It will provide a convenient way for visitors to fill in their arrival card, is environmentally friendly, and will enhance operational efficiency. We understand that more details about implementation will be shared after the ongoing trial is completed," the board added.
For more information, visit the website of Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.
