Paya Lebar Air Base (QPG)

Paya Lebar Air Base (WSAP (QPG)) is primarily a military airbase operated by the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and United States Air Force (USAF), not a commercial airport for civilian travelers. It ceased all civilian commercial flight operations in 1981 with the opening of Changi Airport. Therefore, traditional traveler reviews and experiences in the commercial sense do not exist. "Traveler" experiences are limited to military personnel utilizing Space-A (Space Available) flights and members of the public attending special events, such as the RSAF Open House or visiting the adjacent Air Force Museum.

What Travelers Love (or Appreciate for Specific Access):

• Unique Aviation Access: For authorized military personnel and their dependents, Space-A flights offer a unique, albeit unpredictable, travel option to destinations like Japan and Diego Garcia.
• Educational Public Events: During occasional RSAF Open House events (like RSAF55 in September 2023), the public can get an exciting and educational experience, viewing various RSAF aircraft up close, watching aerial displays, and learning about Singapore's air force capabilities through interactive exhibits.
• Basic Amenities at Space-A Terminal: The Paya Lebar Passenger Terminal for Space-A travelers provides free Wi-Fi, a Distinguished Visitors Lounge, and a beverage vending machine.
• Free Air Force Museum: The Singapore Air Force Museum, located next to the air base, is free to enter for anyone, including tourists, offering a chance to see historical aircraft displays.
• Aircraft Spotting (from outside/during events): For aviation enthusiasts, the base offers opportunities to see various military aircraft, including F-15s and occasionally larger transport planes, especially if located near the runway or during public events.

Common Complaints and Restrictions:

• No Commercial Passenger Flights: Despite some online travel agencies (e.g., Expedia, Travelocity) listing QPG, Paya Lebar Air Base does not operate commercial passenger flights; it is exclusively a military facility.
• Strictly Restricted Access: Entry to the air base is highly controlled and limited to authorized Republic of Singapore Air Force personnel, those with prior booking for Space-A flights, or attendees of pre-approved public events. Unbooked passengers are generally not permitted on the installation, and specific security protocols must be followed.
• No Public/Private Vehicle Access or Parking: Public and private vehicles are not allowed onto the base. There is no public parking available for civilian vehicles. Drop-offs and pick-ups for public events might have designated areas.
• Limited On-Base Amenities: For those with approved access, there are no ATMs or currency exchange services on the air base. Food options are generally not available for sale once inside, beyond a beverage vending machine at the Space-A terminal or a small cafeteria across from the terminal.
• Challenging Ground Transportation: There is no base transportation for passengers. Getting a taxi to downtown hotels can be lengthy, potentially taking up to 2 hours.
• Intermittent Data Connectivity: Some personnel stationed at the base have noted issues with poor data connectivity in certain areas.
• Significant Aircraft Noise: Due to active military flight operations, the base experiences frequent and loud take-offs and landings of fighter jets (e.g., F-15s).

In summary, Paya Lebar Air Base is a highly secure military installation with no facilities or services for typical civilian air travel. While it offers unique experiences for military personnel on Space-A flights and limited public access during special open house events or at the adjacent Air Force Museum, it is not a destination for commercial travel and should not be considered a public airport. The air base is expected to be decommissioned around 2030, with the area redeveloped into a new town.