Singapore Flyer beats London Eye

published by Asianpost on Thu, 02/21/2008 - 14:29

Move over London Eye. The Singapore Flyer began inaugural rides last week on the 165-metre observation wheel, the world's highest.

More them 30 corporate customers have forked out 8,888 Singapore dollars (6,303 US dollars) for two rotations offering a 360-degree view of the city-state, parts of Malaysia, Indonesia and the sea all from the comfort of an air-conditioned capsule.

"Don't call it a ferris wheel," the Great World Corporation builders have urged enthusiasts, citing its gradual 30-minute rotation.

Each of the 28 capsules on the 240-million-Singapore dollar (170 million US dollar) attraction will host 26 guests for the inaugural spin reaching 30 metres higher than the London Eye.

The Flyer will be open to the public starting March 1.

The wheel was designed by Japanese architect Kishe Kurokawa and DP Architects, a Singapore form.

The Flyer is one of a spate of attractions Singapore is offering to boost its visitor arrivals. A Formula 1 Grand Prix, the first to be held at night, is scheduled for September.

Two multi-billion-dollar casino resorts are scheduled for completion in 2010, additionally diversifying the view from the giant wheel.