Singapore Flyer on track for completion by early 2008

SINGAPORE : Singapore's latest attraction - The Singapore Flyer - is on track to be completed by early next year.

The massive observation wheel will offer panoramic views of not only Singapore but certain parts of Malaysia and Indonesia as well.

As developers fit in the final bolt to the wheel's rim, it is impossible to escape comparisons with another wheel - The

Eye on KL - a ferris wheel built in the heart of Kuala Lumpur as part of Malaysia's drive to attract more tourists.

But the Singapore Flyer team wants to make this clear - the Singapore Flyer is not a ferris wheel.

"Your typical ferris wheel has a gravity slung cabin. It can take four to six people and it costs around US$10 to US$15 million to build. This S$230 million project has 10-tonne capsules carrying up to 35 people in air-conditioned comfort where people can sit or walk around inside the cabin," says Peter Purcell, MD of Singapore Flyer.

Part of the evolving landscape at Marina Bay, the project has used up more than one million man hours and is nine weeks ahead of schedule.

Rides will last 37 minutes and ticket prices will begin at about S$30 (US$20).

Corporate events can be held in the cabins for about S$1,000 (US$660).

There are contingency plans should anyone fall ill while in mid-flight.

"The wheel can be accelerated to bring people down if it's an in-cabin emergency. We've also been working with the SCDF, police and other agencies to ensure that in the event of any mechanical stoppage of the wheel, there is a slick and safe evacuation programme," said Purcell.

And as if the structure itself isn't amazing enough, there are strong rumours the UK-based group, which owns the famous Madame Tussauds Museums, has been in talks with the Singapore Flyer team.

But no details have been made available. - CNA /ls