Singapore Changi Terminal 1: Lounges and Terminal Guide
Singapore Changi Airport’s Terminal 1 has one of the most varied lounge line-ups you’ll find anywhere. You can slip into the elegance of the Qantas First Lounge, unwind over a plated meal in the Qatar Airways Premium Lounge, or settle into 24 hour favourites like SATS Premier and Plaza Premium.
This guide covers every lounge option at Changi’s Terminal 1, as well as practical airport information, details on terminal attractions, and tips for choosing the best lounge.
Guide Contents
Terminal 1 Airlines Overview
Terminal 1 is the main hub for oneworld airlines at Changi Airport, serving:
British Airways
Fiji Airways
Finnair
Japan Airlines
Qantas
Qatar Airways
(Note that three other oneworld carriers operate from other terminals: Malaysia Airlines from T2, SriLankan Airlines from T3, and Cathay Pacific from T4.)
T1 is also home to a mix of full-service and budget airlines, and SkyTeam, Star Alliance and non-alliance carriers:
Air China
Air France
Air Niugini
Bangkok Airways
Cambodia Airways
China Southern Airlines
Chongqing Airlines
Emirates
Hebei Airlines
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Philippine Airlines
Scoot
Shandong Airlines
Shenzhen Airlines
Turkish Airlines
Xiamen Airlines
ZIPAIR
Summary of Available Paid Lounges
At Changi Airport Terminal 1, travellers have three contract lounge options offering food, drinks, showers, and a place to recharge before their flight:
SATS Premier Lounge is our top recommendation thanks to its spacious layout, consistent buffet, complimentary showers, and relaxing annex area.
For travellers seeking better lighting, panoramic views, or overnight rest, the Plaza Premium Lounge is a strong second choice, especially with its private sleeping pods and local dining favourites like laksa and chicken rice.
Lounge Profiles
SATS Premier Lounge
The SATS Premier Lounge in Terminal 1 is one of the top independent lounges at Changi, offering a larger space than its counterparts in Terminals 2 and 3. Known for its reliable comfort, signature laksa, and practical facilities, it appeals to a wide range of travellers, especially those flying low-cost or regional carriers who still want a premium ground experience.
Check out this video review from ‘Epic Travel Journeys’ below to get a feel for the lounge:
Location: Airside, Level 3, Departure Transit Hall. After clearing immigration in Terminal 1, follow signs toward the SATS Premier Lounge, located near the main lounge corridor and adjacent to other contract lounges.
Opening Hours: 24 hours daily
Amenities: Rotating buffet, alcoholic (wine, spirits, canned beer) and non-alcoholic beverages (Dilmah tea, coffee, soft drinks), massage chairs, shower facilities with amenities, Annex with private cubicles, power outlets, Wi-Fi, flight monitors.
Access Options:
LoungePair Pass: Purchase a flexible lounge pass via LoungePair which offers walk-up access without a fixed time/date booking. LoungePair offers 3 hours access from $41 USD, a fully refundable pass for an additional $5 USD, or a free pass when purchased together with a LoungePair+ membership.
Memberships:
A DragonPass membership plan will get you entry into this lounge, for a maximum 3 hour stay. You can also purchase a one-off walk-up pass for $55 USD, without a membership.
Priority Pass and Dreamfolks members can access this lounge as per their membership benefits.
Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership with any of these programs.
Cardholders:
Access is available with cards offering Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or DragonPass memberships. Examples include:
Priority Pass‑linked cards like American Express Platinum (+ 2 guests), and Diners Club
LoungeKey via eligible Mastercards.
DragonPass via Visa Airport Companion (Visa Platinum/Infinite/Signature)
Mastercard Travel Pass
Walk-Up Access: You can purchase a pass at the reception desk directly.
Helpful Tips:
The lounge is often quieter than Plaza Premium and a good choice for late-night or budget airline departures.
For a more peaceful experience, head to the annex area with teahouse-style seating and a tranquil water feature.
Shower wait times are usually short, but queueing may occur during busy hours.
Buffets refresh throughout the day, but laksa is served consistently.
Massage chairs are free but may be occupied during peak periods.
Plaza Premium Lounge
The Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal 1 is a versatile, 7,000 square foot space. Open to Priority Pass and DragonPass cardholders, LoungePair guests, and other pay per use customers, it offers a mix of business amenities, signature local dishes, and quiet nooks for productivity or rest.
Location: Airside, Level 3, Departure Transit Hall (near departure gate C21). After immigration, follow signs toward the airport lounges.
Opening Hours: 24 hours daily.
Amenities: Premium food (Laksa, Chicken Rice and the iconic Singapore Sling), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, shower facilities (charges apply), sleeping pods, Wi-Fi, flight monitors, charging stations, TVs.
Access Options:
LoungePair Pass: Purchase a flexible lounge pass via LoungePair which offers walk-up access without a fixed time/date booking. LoungePair offers 3 hours access from $35 USD, a fully refundable pass for an additional $5 USD, or a free pass when purchased together with a LoungePair+ membership.
Other Advance Purchase Options: While booking direct via Plaza Premium requires you to select a fixed date and time of access, it provides a few alternative options such as length of stay packages for 3, 5 and 10 hours, and included 30 minute shower packages.
You can purchase a 3 hour pass for $37 USD respectively. Included 30 minute shower access brings the price to ~$58 USD.
You can purchase a 5 hour pass for $68 USD. Included 30 minute shower access brings the price to ~$91 USD.
You can also purchase a 10 hour pass for $137 USD and the included 30 minute shower access brings the price to ~$167 USD.
You cannot purchase standalone shower usage (it must be purchased alongside a 3, 5 or 10 hour pass)
Memberships:
Priority Pass and Dreamfolks members can access this lounge as per their membership benefits.
Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership with either of these programs.
Cardholders:
Access is available with cards offering Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or DragonPass memberships. Examples include:
Priority Pass‑linked cards like American Express Platinum (+ 2 guests), and Diners Club
LoungeKey via eligible Mastercards.
DragonPass via Visa Airport Companion (Visa Platinum/Infinite/Signature)
Mastercard Travel Pass
Walk-Up Access: You can purchase a pass at the reception desk directly.
Helpful Tips:
Shower suites may require a short wait during peak periods.
Solo travellers should look for the hive-style cubicles near the windows for better lighting and quiet.
Can get crowded during peak hours.
Marhaba Lounge
The Marhaba Lounge is a modest, functional option. While the decor can feel a bit dated, it has a quieter vibe and reliable basics like comfortable seating and an extensive drink station (especially for alcohol). It might be more worthwhile for shorter layovers.
Check out the video review from ‘Epic Travel Journeys’ below to get a feel for the lounge:
Location: Airside, Level 3, above the Departure Immigration Area, diagonally opposite Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao restaurant.
Opening Hours: 06:00 – 01:00 (6am-1am) daily
Amenities: Buffet (e.g. congee, curry, noodles, soup, and salad), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (complimentary coffee, tea juices, soft drinks, house wine and spirits), Wi-Fi, flight monitors, e-magazines, shower facilities, power outlets.
Access Options:
LoungePair Pass: Purchase a flexible lounge pass via LoungePair which offers walk-up access without a fixed time/date booking. LoungePair offers 4 hours access from $45 USD, a fully refundable pass for an additional $6 USD, or a free pass when purchased together with a LoungePair+ membership.
Memberships:
A DragonPass membership plan will get you entry into this lounge, for a maximum 3 hour stay. You can also purchase a one-off walk-up pass for $55 USD, without a membership.
Priority Pass and Dreamfolks members can access this lounge as per their membership benefits.
Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership with either program.
Travel Class or Airline Status:
Oneworld access:
Passengers flying first/business class those who are emerald/sapphire tier members flying on a same day oneworld airline (Finnair, Japan Airlines) have access to the Marhaba lounge.
Cardholders:
Access is available with cards offering Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or DragonPass memberships. Examples include:
Priority Pass‑linked cards like American Express Platinum (+ 2 guests), and Diners Club
LoungeKey via eligible Mastercards.
DragonPass via Visa Airport Companion (Visa Platinum/Infinite/Signature)
Mastercard Travel Pass
Walk-Up Access: You can purchase a pass at the reception desk directly.
Helpful Tips:
Children under the age of 6 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.
Expect limited food variety at the buffet.
Seek out the free liquor as marhaba offers notably generous beverage options compared to other lounges.
Qantas First Lounge
The Qantas First Lounge is widely regarded as one of the best lounges in Changi Airport for food, offering a full dining experience with a standout Neil Perry menu. Designed by David Caon and built to feel like a boutique hotel, this premium space is both stylish and practical.
Check out the official ‘Qantas’ video below to get a sense for the lounge:
Location: Airside, Level 3, Departure Transit Hall (near D Gates). Take the escalator near the main departure shops and follow signs for Qantas lounges.
Above: Map of Changi Airport- Qantas First Lounge is on the far right hand side of the map
Opening Hours: 15:15- 23:00 daily (3:15pm-11pm)
Amenities: À la carte menu (signature dishes include the likes of salt and pepper squid and prawn wontons), cocktail bar (curated wines, spirits, and barista made coffee), Wi-Fi, flight monitors, shower facilities, power outlets.
Access Options:
Travel Class or Airline Status:
Flying Qantas First Class:
If you hold a Qantas First Class boarding pass departing from Changi T1, you get automatic access.
Qantas Platinum or Platinum One:
Qantas Platinum or Platinum One Frequent Flyers get access.
Platinum or Platinum One members can sometimes bring a guest if flying on a Qantas or Oneworld flight.
Oneworld access:
If you are flying business/first class or are a sapphire/emerald tier member and travelling on a same day oneworld airline (Qantas, Fiji Airlines) you have access to the lounge.
Helpful Tips:
Plan to arrive early for a proper dining experience as orders may be cut off 30-45 minutes before closing.
Try the salt and pepper squid, one of the most consistently praised dishes across Qantas First lounges.
Crowds can spike before Qantas and British Airways departures, reducing service speed and seating availability.
This lounge has no tarmac views and limited natural light.
Qantas Business Lounge
The Qantas International Business Lounge offers a reliable and comfortable experience for business class passengers. With more than 250 seats, it’s larger than the adjacent Qantas First Lounge, and typically less crowded (somewhat surprisingly given more people have access).
Location: Airside, Level 3, Departure Transit Hall (near D Gates). Take the escalator near the main departure shops and follow signs for Qantas lounges.
Opening Hours:
Monday, Wednesday and Saturday: 1:50 p.m. to midnight
Tuesday, Friday and Sunday: 7:50 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 1:50 p.m. to midnight
Thursday: 10.55 a.m. to midnight
Amenities: Rotating buffet (hot and cold dishes, salads, curries and desserts), bar (wines, beers, spirits, coffee and tea), workstations, shower facilities, Wi-Fi, power outlets.
Access Options:
Travel Class or Airline Status:
Qantas Platinum, Platinum One, and Gold Qantas frequent flyers get access.
Qantas Club members (1, 2 or 4-years) are also granted complimentary access.
Lounge access is also available to passengers holding an international First or Business Class ticket, as well as SkyTeam Elite Plus Frequent Flyers travelling on a same day international flight with a SkyTeam member airline, or connecting between flights (domestic or international) operated by the following airlines:
Airfrance
KLM
Helpful Tips:
Arrive early to avoid crowding, especially before evening Qantas flights.
Showers are basic but functional; ask for a towel at the reception desk.
Power outlets are widely available but some older seats may lack USB ports.
British Airways Lounge
The British Airways Lounge has refined, heritage inspired décor and a recently added Concorde Dining area for a quiet upscale experience. The lounge offers seating for up to 226 guests.
Location: Airside, Level 3, Departure Transit Hall near D Gates. Take the escalator behind duty-free shopping toward the lounge corridor and follow signs for British Airways.
Opening Hours: 15:00-0:00 daily (3pm-12am)
Amenities: Buffet (featuring British favourites such as herb-crusted beef tenderloin and sticky toffee pudding, alongside locally inspired dishes such as cashew satay chicken and Lion Mane mushroom curry), bar, business facilities, Wi-Fi, power outlets, flight monitors, shower facilities.
Access Options:
Travel Class or Airline Status:
Access to the lounge is available to British Airways First and Club World (business class) customers, and British Airways Executive Gold and Silver members.
Oneworld business/first class flyers or those with Emerald or Sapphire status and flying with British Airways have access.
The Concorde Dining area is exclusively for eligible customers (for British Airways first class passengers only).
Helpful Tips:
Shower suites are limited in number, so request access early if you’re hoping to freshen up before boarding.
Concorde Dining is best experienced earlier in the evening and is limited to first class passengers on British Airways flights.
Solo travellers can seek out the semi-private pods for a quieter stay.
Qatar Airways Premium Lounge
The Qatar Airways Premium Lounge outperforms typical business class lounges in both cuisine and calm but operates during narrow evening and morning windows and admits only Qatar or oneworld premium cabin passengers. The lounge spans over 700 square meters.
Location: Airside, Terminal 1 near C Gates, Level 3. Take the escalator up toward the Emirates and Plaza Premium Lounges.
Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m and 6pm-2:30am
Amenities: À la carte dining with plated starters and mains (e.g. grilled beef tenderloin, roasted vegetables, bread pudding), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (e.g. champagne and mocktails), two private shower facilities, prayer room, Wi-Fi, magazines, power outlets.
Access Options:
Travel Class:
This lounge is only open to first and business class passengers departing on Qatar Airways. Normally oneworld first class passengers are allowed to bring one guest who is travelling in any cabin class, but this does not apply to the Qatar Airways Premium Lounge- no guests allowed.
Helpful Tips:
Note the limited hours in the middle of the day (closed 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)
Dining exceeds expectations, so arrive hungry for plated meals.
Pod seating near windows is ideal for privacy or quiet work.
Shower wait times can spike in the evening, so ask reception upon entry.
Emirates Lounge
The Emirates Lounge in Terminal 1 offers a generous buffet, premium drinks, and great tarmac views. Open in the afternoon and evening for Emirates business class and Skywards elite passengers , it’s a consistently solid lounge experience with comfortable seating. First class passengers seeking a more elevated experience may prefer the nearby Qantas First Lounge.
Location: Airside, Terminal 1 near C Gates, Level 3 After immigration, head toward the C gates and take the escalator past Plaza Premium; the Emirates Lounge is on the left.
Opening Hours:
7:35 a.m. to 10:35 a.m.
12:35 p.m. to 3:35 p.m.
5:00 p.m. to 1:40 a.m.
Amenities: Buffet (hot dishes, salads, satay, desserts and halal options), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (self-serve Moët and Veuve Champagne, wines, spirits, and soft drinks), four shower facilities, Wi-Fi, power outlets, reading materials.
Access Options:
Travel Class or Airline Status:
First and Business Class passengers on an Emirates flight departing from Changi get automatic lounge access.
Entry to the Emirates Lounge is complimentary for Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members who are travelling onwards in any cabin class on Emirates flights.
Platinum members can bring along one adult guest (17 years old and over) and two guests under the age of 17.
Gold members can bring along one guest.
Helpful Tips:
Food quality and variety peak in the evening (ahead of multiple late-night departures to Dubai).
Showers are simple but functional, with shorter waits in the early evening.
Terminal 1 Family Facilities
Terminal 1 offers a range of family-friendly amenities to help parents and little ones stay comfortable and refreshed while in transit:
Baby care rooms: 8 rooms with hot water dispensers, changing tables, privacy for breastfeeding, and diaper disposal
Family immigration lanes: Dedicated lanes to move strollers and little travelers through faster
Diaper vending machines: Conveniently placed near family zones and play areas
And here are some attractions to keep you or your kids busy and engaged (all are 24 hours and on Level 2 unless noted otherwise):
Cactus Garden: Rooftop garden with 100+ cacti and desert plants plus a bar (Level 3)
Discovery Garden: Tree like structures wrapped in foliage for a quick nature break. Located on level 2.
Tropical Rainforest Vivarium: Rainforest paludarium with terrestrial and aquatic flora and faun.
Water Lily Garden: Tranquil pond with water lilies in a natural aquatic setting
Above: Discovery Garden
Aerotel Swimming Pool
If you’d rather swap lounge chairs for a sun lounger, the Aerotel Singapore in Terminal 1 is home to Changi’s only outdoor pool and jacuzzi. There is also a poolside bar, towels to use, and shower facilities. Tucked away on Level 3 of the Departure Transit Hall near Gate D41, it offers a rare chance to get fresh air and watch planes between flights.
Cost per person: $25+ per adult
Operating hours: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM daily
**Guests of Aerotel Airport Transit Hotel enjoy complimentary use of these facilities.
Overnight at Terminal 1
For late night departures, early morning arrivals, or unexpected layovers in Terminal 1, you have several options to rest without leaving the airport:
24 Hour Pay‑Per‑Use Lounges:
Plaza Premium Lounge: Open 24 hours with buffet dining, showers (for additional $20 fee), and private resting suites and sleeping pods and showers (from $121 extra). These suites are ideal for travellers who want a quiet, enclosed space for real rest without booking a hotel.
Helpful tip: Reserve a suite or pod as soon as you arrive given that late-night demand is high.
SATS Premier Lounge: Open 24 hours with basic overnight seating, massage chairs, and showers included at no extra cost. Best for those who can rest in an open lounge environment and value access to food and drinks throughout the night.
Helpful tip: For the quietest spot, head to the annex area with teahouse-style seating.
Free ‘Snooze Lounges’
Free padded chairs in dimly lit areas near the C Gates and Level 3 Transit Mall. Great for short naps but not ideal for deep sleep.
Helpful tip: These fill up quickly after 10 p.m. Bring a travel blanket or sweater to combat strong overnight air-conditioning.
Aerotel Singapore (airside hotel)
Located near Gate D41, Aerotel offers proper hotel rooms in 6-hour (or longer) blocks (from $130), ranging from single bed rooms with shared bathrooms to two bedroom family rooms with private bathrooms. Guests also have access to the outdoor pool, jacuzzi, fitness centre, and showers.
Above: Aerotel Airport Transit Hotel Room
Crowne Plaza Changi Airport (landside hotel)
Located landside and connected to Terminal 3 (a short Skytrain ride or walk away from T1), the Crowne Plaza is ideal for travelers with longer overnight layovers who don’t mind clearing immigration. Expect soundproof rooms, plush bedding, and runway views.
Getting to Other Terminals
Terminal 1 is well connected, making transfers to other terminals quick and straightforward:
To Terminals 1 and 2
Take the free Skytrain (runs every 1-4 minutes from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.); the ride takes 2-4 minutes
From 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m, the Skytrain stops running; during this time, you can take a free shuttle or walk between terminals but you'll need to be outside the secure zone (you’ll need to clear immigration to enter Singapore)
To Terminal 4
Take the shuttle bus every 10-15 minutes (from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.) or every 31 minutes (overnight); the ride takes 15-20 minutes
To Jewel
Jewel's entrance is connected to T1 arrival hall on Level 1 (outside the secure zone; you’ll need to clear immigration to enter Singapore)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lounge is best in Changi Airport Terminal 1 Priority Pass?
The SATS Premier Lounge is the top Priority Pass option in T1, offering spacious seating, consistent hot food, and free showers. The Plaza Premium Lounge is a close second, with panoramic views, local dishes and optional sleeping pods. Note that you can still buy a pass to these lounges even if you don’t have Priority Pass or another lounge membership.
Which is the best Oneworld lounge in Singapore T1?
For first class, choose the Qantas First Lounge for fine dining and premium service, or the British Airways Lounge if flying BA to access the Concorde Room.
Which lounge in Changi Terminal 1 has the best food?
For à la carte dining, the Qantas First Lounge serves restaurant quality dishes like Neil Perry’s salt and pepper squid, and regional favourites like nasi lemak. Among pay-per-use lounges, Plaza Premium and SATS Premier are praised for their signature laksa and Singaporean favourites.
Summing Up
With world class airline lounges, and high quality contract lounge options, Changi’s Terminal 1 offers something for every travel style and budget.
First Class passengers can indulge in restaurant quality dining at the Qantas Lounge, Business Class travellers can relax in Qatar’s serene, elegant environment, and pay-per-use guests enjoy comfort and convenience at SATS Premier or Plaza Premium.
So whether you’re seeking a premium experience or just a comfortable stopover, Changi’s Terminal 1 has a lounge to suit your style.