How to Get to Singapore Airport: MRT, Taxi, or Private Transfer?

Getting to the airport may seem simple, but in a city like Singapore, it can make a big difference to your travel experience. Changi Airport is one of the busiest hubs in Asia, welcoming tens of millions of passengers every year.

With so many people flying in and out daily, choosing the right way to reach the airport matters — it’s the first step to ensuring your journey starts smoothly.

The challenge, however, lies in deciding which transport option to take. Many travelers, whether locals heading for a business trip or visitors catching a flight home, often struggle to pick between budget-friendly public transport, a quick taxi ride, or a comfortable private transfer.

Each option has trade-offs: affordability, convenience, space, and reliability — and these factors become even more important when traveling with family, children, or large amounts of luggage.

This article will break down and compare all the main transport options to Singapore’s airport. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which choice best suits your budget, travel needs, and comfort level.

Key Factors When Choosing Airport Transport in Singapore

When planning your journey to Singapore’s airport, a few key factors can help you choose the best transport option for your needs. Thinking through these considerations ensures a smooth, stress-free start to your trip.

Budget: Choosing Based on Cost

Your budget often determines which transport option is most suitable.

• MRT and public buses are the most affordable choices, perfect for solo travelers or those carrying minimal luggage.
• Taxis and ride-hailing apps offer mid-range convenience, with fares that vary depending on traffic, time of day, and surcharges.
• For travelers who value comfort, reliability, and space, private transfers such as limousines or maxi cabs are a premium choice — the higher fare reflects professional service, fixed pricing, and a worry-free experience.

Group Size: Travel Together, Save Time and Money

If you are traveling with family, friends, or a corporate group, booking a single maxi cab is often more efficient and economical than using multiple taxis.

Traveling together not only simplifies logistics but also keeps everyone on the same schedule and reduces the stress of coordinating multiple vehicles.

Luggage Needs: Make Room for Comfort

For trips with multiple suitcases, strollers, or bulky items, a standard taxi or compact car may not have enough space.

Maxi cabs and minibuses are designed to handle both passengers and large luggage comfortably, making them ideal for families, groups, or tourists traveling with lots of baggage.

Time of Travel: Align Your Option with Your Flight Schedule

The timing of your journey plays an important role in choosing transport. Early morning or late-night flights may leave public transport unavailable, making taxis or pre-booked private transfers the safest and most reliable choice.

Daytime off-peak trips can be conveniently handled with the MRT or public buses, especially if you’re traveling light and want a cost-effective option.

Reliability: Stress-Free Travel Matters

For business travelers or anyone on a tight schedule, reliability is key. Fixed-price services such as limousines or maxi cabs ensure punctual arrivals, professional drivers, and hassle-free luggage handling.

Unlike taxis or ride-hailing apps, these services track your flight and adjust pick-up times for delays, giving you complete peace of mind.

1. Public Transport Options (Budget-Friendly, but Limited)

For travelers on a tight budget, Singapore’s public transport system offers affordable ways to get to Changi Airport.

Both the MRT and public buses connect directly to the airport, making them accessible choices.

However, while they save money, they often come with trade-offs in convenience, comfort, and timing.

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)

The MRT is the cheapest way to reach Changi Airport, with fares usually between $2–$3 per person.

The East-West (Green) Line runs directly to the airport, making it a straightforward choice for solo travelers with light luggage.

Pros:

• Cost-effective for individuals.
• Reliable and efficient during off-peak hours.
• Eco-friendly option compared to private cars.

Cons:

• Limited operating hours, with first trains starting around 5:30am and last services ending near 11:30pm.
• Multiple transfers may be needed if you’re coming from other parts of the city.
• Can get crowded during rush hours.
• Not ideal for families, groups, or anyone carrying bulky or heavy luggage.

2.2 Public Buses

Public buses also serve Changi Airport, with fares similar to the MRT — around $2–$3 per trip. Several routes, including 24, 27, 34, 36, 53, 110, and 858, stop at the airport.

They provide a low-cost alternative with wider coverage across the island.

Pros:

• Cheapest way to get to the airport.
• Wide route coverage.
• Services generally operate from early morning until around midnight.

Cons:

• Journey times are much slower than the MRT due to frequent stops and road traffic.
• Not convenient for travelers with large suitcases or oversized bags.
• Less practical for groups or passengers who need to arrive quickly.

2. Taxis & Ride-Hailing Services (Convenient, But Variable)

For many travelers, taxis and ride-hailing apps are the middle ground between budget public transport and premium private transfers.

They offer door-to-door convenience, but the costs can swing widely depending on time of day, location, and demand.

3.1 Regular Metered Taxis

Taxis remain one of the most popular ways to get to and from Changi Airport. They can be flagged down on the street, booked through taxi apps, or picked up directly from designated airport taxi stands.

• Cost: A typical trip costs between $25 and $40, depending on distance, time of travel, and ERP (Electronic Road Pricing) charges.
• Extra charges:
  • Airport surcharge: $3–$5
  • Midnight surcharge: 50% of the metered fare
  • Peak-hour surcharge: 25% of the metered fare

Pros: Taxis provide direct, no-hassle transport from your doorstep to the airport. Travelers don’t have to worry about train interchanges or bus schedules.

Cons: The main downside is unpredictability. Fares fluctuate with traffic, surcharges, and waiting time. Standard taxis also have limited space for luggage, which can be inconvenient for families or business travelers with multiple bags.

During peak hours or rainy weather, hailing a taxi can also take longer than expected.

Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab, Gojek, TADA)

Ride-hailing apps like Grab, Gojek, and TADA are widely used in Singapore, offering an app-based alternative to traditional taxis. With these services, you can book a car in advance, track your driver’s arrival, and see the fare upfront.

• Cost: Prices generally range from $30 to $50 during normal hours. However, surge pricing can drive costs much higher during peak periods, bad weather, or major events.
• Options: Platforms provide choices for car size, such as GrabXL, which is better for groups or travelers with extra luggage.

Pros: These services are convenient and cashless, making them especially attractive for international travelers. The app shows the route, estimated arrival time, and driver details, which adds peace of mind.

Cons: Surge pricing is the biggest drawback. A ride that normally costs $35 could easily double at peak demand. Cancellations by drivers can also be frustrating, and luggage space is similar to that of regular taxis, which may not suit families or larger groups.

3. Private Airport Transfers (By Platinummaxicab.com)

For travelers who value comfort, reliability, and convenience, private airport transfers are the ideal solution. At Platinum Maxi Cab, we provide a range of vehicles to suit different needs — whether you’re traveling alone, with family, in a corporate group, or as a tourist party.

Unlike taxis or public transport, our services are pre-booked, professionally managed, and tailored to ensure a smooth, stress-free journey.

With our private singapore airport transfers, you don’t need to worry about traffic delays, luggage handling, or finding the right station. Our chauffeurs track flight timings and adjust pick-up schedules if there are delays, giving you complete peace of mind.

Limousine Services

Our premium limousine fleet includes top-of-the-line vehicles such as Mercedes E-Class, S-Class, and BMW, designed for passengers who expect luxury, comfort, and punctuality.

Pricing:

• Mercedes E-Class: from $70 per trip
• Mercedes S-Class: from $130 per trip

Ideal For:

• Business travelers needing a professional and quiet environment.
• VIPs attending meetings or events.
• Couples or solo travelers who want a premium experience.

Service Highlights:

• Professional chauffeurs: Trained drivers who know Singapore’s roads and monitor flight schedules to ensure timely pick-up.
• Luxury interiors: Spacious seating, climate control, and a comfortable environment for work or relaxation.
• Meet & greet service: Our drivers meet you at arrivals, help with luggage, and ensure a smooth transfer to your destination.

Pros:

• Eliminates stress of navigating traffic or public transport.
• Reliable and punctual — perfect for tight schedules.
• High-end vehicles provide comfort and style for business or leisure travel.

Cons:

• Higher fare than taxis or public transport, but the cost reflects comfort, professionalism, and reliability.

Maxi Cab & Minibus Services

For families, groups, or travelers with large amounts of luggage, our maxi cab and minibus fleet provides spacious and comfortable transportation. We offer vehicles ranging from 6-seater to 13-seater, including Toyota Alphard, Vellfire, Mercedes V-Class, and Toyota Hiace.

Pricing:

• 6-seater (Toyota Noah/Voxy): from $55
• 6-seater premium (Alphard limousine singapore/Vellfire): from $65
• 7-seater (Mercedes Viano/Tourer/V-Class): $65–$75
• 9-seater (Toyota Hiace): $65
• 13-seater mini bus (Toyota Hiace Premium Executive): $75–$88

Ideal For:

• Families traveling with children and multiple suitcases.
• Tour groups exploring Singapore or arriving from Malaysia.
• Corporate teams attending meetings, events, or airport transfers.

Service Highlights:

• Ample luggage capacity: Depending on the vehicle, you can carry 6–10 large suitcases along with passengers comfortably.
• Fixed pricing: No surge pricing or hidden fees, so you know the cost upfront.
• Advanced booking: Reserve your vehicle in advance to guarantee availability at your preferred time.
• Comfortable interiors: Spacious seating ensures everyone can relax during the journey, whether traveling for business or leisure.

Pros:

• Entire group travels together, which saves time and simplifies coordination.
• Luggage space and comfort are prioritized, making it ideal for families or long trips.
• Predictable, fixed pricing avoids last-minute surprises.

Cons:

• Vehicles cannot be flagged down spontaneously — booking in advance is required to secure your transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the cheapest way to get to Changi Airport?

The MRT and public buses are the most budget-friendly options, with fares typically between $2–$3 per person. They are ideal for solo travelers or those with light luggage but may not be convenient for families or large groups.

2. Are taxis and ride-hailing apps reliable for airport transfers?

Yes, taxis and ride-hailing services offer door-to-door convenience and shorter travel times. However, fares can fluctuate due to traffic, peak-hour surcharges, or surge pricing, and luggage space is limited compared to maxi cabs or minibuses.

3. When should I consider a private transfer like Platinum Maxi Cab?

Private transfers are best if you want comfort, reliability, and space. They are ideal for:

• Business travelers or VIPs needing a professional experience
• Families or groups traveling with multiple suitcases
• Early morning or late-night flights when public transport is unavailable

4. How do I choose the right vehicle for my airport transfer?

Consider group size, luggage, and comfort needs:

• Solo or couples with minimal luggage → Limousine or small taxi
• Families or groups → 6–13 seater maxi cab or minibus
• Always check luggage capacity to ensure a comfortable fit for everyone.

5. Can I book a Platinum Maxi Cab last minute?

It’s best to book in advance to guarantee availability, especially for larger vehicles like maxi cabs and minibuses. Limousines and smaller cars may be available for short notice, but pre-booking ensures punctuality and peace of mind.

6. Are the prices for Platinum Maxi Cab fixed?

Yes, we offer fixed upfront pricing with no hidden fees or surge charges. This makes budgeting easier and avoids any unexpected costs during your trip.

7. How do I make a booking?

Booking is simple:

1. Select your vehicle type based on group size and luggage.
2. Provide your pickup time, date, and flight details.
3. Confirm your reservation via website, Our Google My Business Profile or WhatsApp.

For assistance, you can also call us at +65 9777 5151.