The Thomson-East Coast Line extension will connect East West Line stations to Changi Airport Terminal 5 with advanced signalling and faster, high-capacity train operations. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Thomson-East Coast Line extension will modernize key stations and link Changi Airport with central Singapore through high-speed, automated signalling.
Photo, source: www.alstom.com

Thomson-East Coast Line extension to modernize airport access

Alstom has signed a major contract with Singapore’s Land Transport Authority to integrate three East West Line stations—Tanah Merah, Expo, and Changi Airport—into the Thomson-East Coast Line extension (TELe).

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This project includes installing the Urbalis CBTC system and linking to the future Terminal 5, improving airport connectivity and reducing travel times.

The Thomson-East Coast Line extension supports Singapore’s Land Transport Master Plan 2040 by enabling seamless journeys between the airport and city.

It ensures higher capacity, full automation, and sustainable mobility, aligning with national goals.

ST Engineering Urban Solutions Ltd. will supply the data communication systems and platform screen doors.

Together with Alstom, they will deliver a complete and efficient upgrade of the entire corridor.

Thomson-East Coast Line extension enhances journey efficiency

Once completed, the 57 km TEL will link Tanah Merah with Woodlands North, running through Gardens by the Bay, Maxwell, and Orchard.

It will also connect to the Johor Bahru–Singapore RTS Link, supporting cross-border travel.

Travel from Changi Airport to Marina Bay will shrink from 55 to 45 minutes, and journeys to Gardens by the Bay will take only 40 minutes instead of 60.

This reduction in travel time benefits both commuters and international travelers.

Alstom’s Managing Director for Singapore and Malaysia, Yann Maixandeau, emphasized the company’s role in Singapore’s rail evolution.

He noted that Alstom’s driverless signalling systems continue to shape urban mobility in Southeast Asia.

Globally, Alstom’s Urbalis platform powers 190 metro lines, including 67 fully automated systems in 32 countries.

The system’s intelligent automation can reduce energy use by up to 30%, promoting efficient operations and sustainability.

Photo, source: www.alstom.com

FAQ

What is the Thomson-East Coast Line extension project?

The Thomson-East Coast Line extension is a major upgrade linking Changi Airport with the East West Line using automated signalling for faster travel.

How will the Thomson-East Coast Line extension improve travel to Changi Airport?

It will shorten travel time to key areas like Marina Bay and Gardens by the Bay while offering direct, high-speed service.

Can passengers use the TEL to reach Johor Bahru?

Yes, the TEL will connect to the RTS Link at Woodlands North, providing a convenient cross-border transit option.

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