Hundreds of Star Wars fans flock to Changi Airport for X-wing unveiling
At least a few hundred fans turned up at Changi Airport on Thursday morning (12 November) for the unveiling of a life-sized X-wing from Star Wars, a month before the much anticipated "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" film opens in Singapore.
The replica at Terminal 3, which has an open cockpit, was accompanied by members of the 501st Legion Singapore Garrison.
They were dressed in the orange of the rebel pilots and the iconic white Stormtroopers, who posed with the display and the public before leading a march to Terminal 2, where another replica, this time of the Imperial TIE fighter, waited.
The crowd which followed them was so large, the mezzanine level link bridge between the terminals and above the MRT station started shaking, causing airport security to stop people halfway while waiting for those in front to exit.
Consisting of members of the media, fans, and curious onlookers (some who were wondering which celebrity had arrived), the massive crowd watched on as the Stormtroopers lined up in rows, much to the delight of selfie-enthusiasts.
In addition to the unveiling of the two Star Wars replica fighters, a real Star Wars-themed plane was also waiting at Terminal 2.
The Boeing 787 from All Nippon Airways (ANA) features a paint-scheme inspired by R2-D2, the astromech droid from the original trilogy, with white and blue markings over its hull.
The magic starts before boarding, with gate E26 and the aerobridge also taking on a Star Wars theme and feel, which continues to the interior of the plane, with its lighting and sound effects.
Members of the public who wish to take pictures in the X-wing cockpit can queue for tickets, which will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are four photo-sessions every day from 13 November 2015 to 5 January 2016, 10am-12pm, 1pm-3pm, 4pm-6pm (except Saturdays), and 7pm-9pm, and costumes ranging from Jedis to Rebel Alliance pilots to Stormtroopers are available.
As for those who prefer to get more up close and personal with the Empire and the rebels, there will be weekly character greetings by Rebel Alliance pilots and Stormtroopers every Saturday at 4pm until 2 January 2016.
