From October 3–5, 2025, the world of motorsport will turn its gaze toward Singapore as the city-state hosts its iconic Formula 1 Grand Prix. For business aviation operators, this high-profile event brings unique challenges due to the anticipated influx of private jets and constrained airport infrastructure.

Here’s what you need to know to navigate the event successfully:

The Race

The Singapore Grand Prix race weekend schedule is as follows:

• Friday, October 3 – Practice
• Saturday, October 4 – Qualifying
• Sunday, October 5 – Race

The 5.065-kilometer Marina Bay Street Circuit will host 61 laps of thrilling night racing, drawing significant international General Aviation (GA) traffic.

Read full race details.

Airport Options

There are two airport options for Singapore:

• Seletar Airport (WSSL)
• Changi Intl Airport (WSSS)

For the Grand Prix period, Seletar (WSSL) is the preferred airport for business aviation operations due to its relative flexibility and lower cost.

Both airports are relatively close to downtown, with Seletar approximately 20 minutes away and Changi about 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, plan for extended travel times during the race weekend due to road closures and high demand.

For more information on Singapore Airports, visit our Business Aviation Guide.

Seletar Airport (WSSL)

The default airport for F1 flights is Seletar Airport (WSSL).

• Distance to Circuit: ~13 miles (21 km)
• Drive Time: 30–45 minutes (longer during F1 weekend)
• Operating Hours: 24 hours, with night curfew from 1400–2300 UTC
• Airport Type: Schedule-facilitated (Level 2), GA-focused
• CIQ: On-site via Seletar Business Aviation Centre (SBAC)

Operating Restrictions

• A night curfew is in effect from 1400–2300 UTC for all non-emergency flights.
• Training restrictions apply Tuesdays through Sundays. Non-training flights should avoid:
  • 0130–0230 UTC / 0930–1030 LT
  • 0400–0500 UTC / 1200–1300 LT
  • 0700–0800 UTC / 1500–1600 LT
  • 0900–1000 UTC / 1700–1800 LT

Slot Requirements

Seletar does not currently require airport slots, but as a Level 2 schedule-facilitated airport, traffic will be monitored and recommended schedule adjustments may be issued. Expect possible congestion during peak hours.

Parking

Aircraft parking is in high demand during the Grand Prix. Apron space is limited, and you may be repositioned to one of five contingency zones:

• Area 1: Taxi lane WB6 (Stands B1–B3)
• Area 2: Taxi lane WB4 (Stands A1–A4)
• Area 3: Taxiway WA (near Stand D1)
• Compass Swing
• Ground Run-up Enclosure (GRE)

Aircraft parked over 24 hours may be towed to the Compact Parking Area. Crew presence is not required for repositioning.

CIQ & Seletar Business Aviation Centre

• All customs and immigration clearance is processed through SBAC.
• Only one arrival or departure movement can be processed at a time.
• Congestion is expected from Oct. 1-6 (Wednesday to Monday)
• Crews will now be directed to the 2nd level lounge, accessible via elevator.
• To minimize delays, clients should complete e-Arrival cards in advance and provide them to your handler for manifest cross-checking.

Fuel Services

• Regular fueling hours:
  • Weekdays: 0730–2200 LT
  • Weekends/Holidays: 0830–1730 LT
• After-hours fueling is possible with at least 2 hours’ notice and will incur overtime surcharges.
• Fuel is typically more expensive than at Changi.

Catering

• In-flight catering can be arranged through Universal’s preferred caterer, SATS—the only provider able to deliver directly to the aircraft.
• Place orders at least 48 hours in advance during the Grand Prix period.
• Universal can also coordinate pickups from local restaurants or hotels; delivery surcharges will apply.

Ground Transport

• Seletar is in a more isolated area than Changi, with limited public taxi access.
• Pre-arranged car and driver service is strongly recommended.
• Public transit to and from Seletar is not ideal for crew or passengers.
• Road closures in the Marina Bay and city center area will affect travel times.

Changi Airport (WSSS) – Use Only If Necessary

Changi will only be available for quick turnarounds during the F1 period.

• Distance to Circuit: ~12 miles (20 km)

• Drive Time: 20–30 minutes (longer during F1 weekend)

• Operating Hours: 24 hours

• Airport Type: Slot-coordinated, commercial-focused

Operational Restrictions (27 Sep – 08 Oct 2025)

• GA operators limited to quick turnarounds (pick-up/drop-off only).

• No layovers permitted unless supported by valid documentation justifying operational requirements.

• Non-F1-related flights will be denied operations to WSSS during this period.

• All GCR filings must include in the SI message:

  • Lead Passenger

  • Business Entity

  • Reason(s) for operating to WSSS

• Diplomatic flights require advance filing and approved diplomatic permit numbers. MDA permit approval does not guarantee bay availability.

• Submission Deadline: GCRs must be submitted by 23 Sep, 1200LT. Late submissions will not be entertained.

• The Slot Office reserves the right to refuse non-compliant flights.

Ground Handling & Fuel

• Higher costs than Seletar.

• Fuel is cheaper due to hydrant fueling system.

CIQ / Jetquay Lounge

• The CIP Terminal beside T2 is closed.

• Jetquay Lounge (Terminal 2) will be used for business aviation with separate CIQ.

Hotels During F1 Weekend

• Hotel prices in Singapore rise significantly during the Grand Prix period.
• Expect $300–$450/night for 4-star crew accommodations.
• Popular hotels in Marina Bay may be fully booked or require special access due to road closures.
• We recommend staying in the central business district and confirming bookings early.

Local Travel During F1

• Road closures will affect areas including:
  • Marina Bay (Esplanade, Raffles Ave, Nicoll Highway)
  • City Hall & Raffles Place (Fullerton Rd, Anderson Bridge)
  • Suntec/Millenia Walk (Temasek Blvd, Raffles Blvd)
• Public transit is the most reliable option. MRT trains will have extended hours on race days.
• Taxi and Grab surge pricing likely.
• Avoid renting a car due to road closures and limited parking.

Bad Weather Contingency

• If weather conditions disrupt traffic, aircraft will be sequenced based on approved slot times.
• Diversions to Changi may be possible but repositioning to Seletar will be required once weather clears.

Conclusion

If you’re heading to Singapore for the 2025 Grand Prix, confirm aircraft parking, ground transport, and hotel arrangements as soon as possible. Seletar (WSSL) remains the strategic choice for most GA operators, thanks to more flexible parking, no slot requirements, and dedicated support.

Changi (WSSS) may only be viable for quick turnarounds if all filing requirements are met, including GCR submission by 23 Sep, 1200LT.

Universal Aviation Singapore is standing by to help ensure your trip runs smoothly.