16,000 expected to ride the S'pore Flyer this weekend

Members of the public will finally get to see the magnificent Singapore cityscape from its latest vantage point, some 165-metres up in the skies. The Singapore Flyer, which began construction in September 2005, finally opens its doors to the public today, with flights commencing as early as 8.30am this morning.

The giant observation wheel - hailed as the world's largest - made its inaugural rounds on February 11 and has since been frequented exclusively by the likes of corporate clients and reserved for private events.

With the public opening today, some 16,000 people will be expected to take to the skies this weekend - an estimated 75 per cent of total tickets sold.

The wheel is expected to carry about 8,000 people each on Saturday and Sunday, said a spokesperson from Adval Brand Group, the exclusive sales, marketing and ticket distribution agent for Singapore Flyer.

The S$240m Singapore Flyer boasts 28 spacious air-conditioned cabins, which can take up to a maximum of 12,000 people everyday.

From their capsule, members of the public will enjoy breath-taking panorama of the Singapore cityscape, featuring the fast-transforming Marina Bay area and even parts of neighbouring Malaysia and Indonesia.

In addition to ticket holders, Singapore Flyer also expects visits from the general public, who will be curious to have a first-hand glance at one of the island's most anticipated icons.