SINGAPORE: Many are saying that ticket prices for the Singapore Flyer – which will be officially opened on Tuesday 15 April – are too high for students and senior citizens.

A 30-minute ride on Singapore's latest iconic attraction costs almost a dollar a minute. Tickets are selling at S$29.50 for adults, S$20.65 for children and S$23.60 for senior citizens.

The 40-storey attraction costs about S$240 million to build.

"I think it should be S$20 for adults and S$5 for kids. I mean I've been to the London Eye, and it's the same as this. So this is costlier than the London Eye," one said.

But not everyone agree with this view.

"I believe if you go on any Ferris wheel or any other fun fair, you'll end up spending a similar amount of money. For a ride that lasts this long, that is so unique and spectacular, it's good value for money," another said.

People behind the Singapore Flyer said sales have been good.

Steven Yeo, General Manager, Singapore Flyer, said: "Singaporeans have been quite responsive. Over the last weekend, we set new records in terms of number of visitors. We had a promotion and we had taxi drivers come in with their families, and we probably had a good 2,000 people from that event alone. We'll be reviewing the prices as we go along."

Food and retail outlets are also happy with business at the mall.

Maxim Kang, Managing Director, Kenko Reflexology & Spa, said: "When we first started, we had more corporate (clients) and fewer walk-in customers. But since March, when the Singapore Flyer opened to the public, we've had more locals and tourists."

Lamine Guendil, Director, Senso Holdings, said: "Business has been pretty good, way beyond my expectation. We've had some great events with banks and corporate clients. The flow of Singaporeans and tourists is also increasing every day."

Organisers have planned concerts, street performances and spectacular lighting effects for the official opening on Tuesday evening.


- CNA/so