TRIALS at Changi Airport's Terminal 4 will enter the next phase in the coming weeks with participating airlines running selected commercial flights.

The trials, which are aimed at ensuring smooth operations, began nine months ago and have already covered aspects such as staff familiarisation with the new terminal and its processes.

Terminal 4 incorporates a suite of self service options to derive manpower savings, including automated check in, bag drop, immigration and boarding. Terminal 4 also makes use of facial recognition technology to authenticate each passenger's identity.

Terminal 4 is due to open in the second half of the year, with nine airlines operating out of what was the former Budget Terminal.