The skies between Jeju and Singapore are set to become wider. T'way Air will launch a new direct regular flight service connecting Jeju International Airport (CJU) and Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN) starting August 15th. This new route will diversify Jeju's international routes and boost efforts to attract tourists from Southeast Asia. This expansion is expected to offer more overseas travel options for Jeju residents and domestic travelers. It's also anticipated to be a significant turning point in drawing inbound tourism demand from Singapore and other Southeast Asian regions to Jeju.
Flight Schedule and Expected Effects: Enhanced Accessibility, Driving Tourism and Economic Vitality
T'way Air's Jeju-Singapore route will initially operate five times a week from Jeju: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. From September 1st to October 25th, the frequency will increase to daily flights, maximizing convenience for travelers. Flights from Jeju International Airport will depart around 7:50 PM and arrive at Singapore Changi International Airport around 12:45 AM the next day. Return flights will depart Singapore at 2:15 AM local time and arrive at Jeju International Airport around 9:20 AM. Considering the approximate 5-hour and 45-minute flight time and a one-hour time difference (Singapore is one hour behind Korea), travelers can reach Singapore, a representative Asian tourist destination, in a relatively short period.
This new route signifies an expansion of Jeju's international route portfolio. Jeju Airport has historically focused primarily on Northeast Asian routes, such as China and Japan. The addition of the Singapore route secures a bridgehead for penetrating the Southeast Asian market. Notably, through Singapore Changi International Airport, a world-class hub, connectivity between Jeju and major global cities will be strengthened, contributing to Jeju's emergence as a full-fledged international tourism hub. Singaporean tourists generally have high purchasing power, and their visits to Jeju are expected to have a considerable ripple effect on regional economic revitalization. New demand will be created across various sectors, including accommodation, food and beverage, and shopping, positively impacting the overall regional economy.
T'way Air's Singapore Route Strategy: Strengthening LCC Market Competitiveness
T'way Air has already contributed to active exchanges between the two countries by launching its Incheon-Singapore regular service in May 2022, marking the first time a domestic low-cost carrier (LCC) did so. Currently, T'way Air operates the Incheon-Singapore route daily, consistently accumulating performance by transporting approximately 710,000 passengers and 17,000 tons of cargo. The launch of the Jeju-Singapore route is interpreted as part of T'way Air's strategy to strengthen its international network. As the airline market reconfigures with the merger of Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, it is becoming increasingly crucial for LCCs to secure independent international competitiveness. T'way Air plans to further solidify its position in the domestic LCC market through aggressive route expansion.
Attractive Destination Singapore: Mild Year-Round Weather and Diverse Attractions
Singapore is considered an ideal travel destination year-round due to its consistently mild weather. It is a leading Asian tourist destination that harmonizes modern urban landscapes with tropical natural environments, boasting abundant green spaces even within the city, earning it the nickname "Garden City." It features world-renowned attractions like Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa Island, Gardens by the Bay, and Marina Bay Sands, making it popular among travelers of all ages. As a multicultural city, it offers diverse cuisines and cultural experiences. Its clean and safe environment is also a major appeal of Singapore.
New Route Launch Promotions and Future Outlook
To celebrate the new route, T'way Air will hold a "Jeju-Singapore New Route Special Promotion" starting June 11th on its official website and mobile app (web). This will provide Jeju residents and domestic travelers with an opportunity to visit Singapore at a more affordable price.
A T'way Air official stated, "With the launch of the Jeju-Singapore route, we anticipate increased exchange between Korea and Singapore, as well as an expanded influx of foreign tourists to Jeju." They added, "We will continue to prioritize safe operations and do our best to enhance customer convenience." T'way Air's new direct Jeju-Singapore route is expected to inject new vitality into Jeju's international routes and play a crucial role in further activating tourism and economic exchange between the two countries. We look forward to seeing Jeju Airport's international network expand further, developing Jeju into a global tourist city.
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