Singapore Flyer gets rolling

Asia's largest observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer, has opened for business.

The S$240 million, 165 metre high wheel offers 30-minute rides in 28 air-conditioned capsules boasting 360-degree views over neighbouring Marina Bay and parts of Malaysia and Indonesia.

Patsy Ong, Managing Director of Adval Brand Group, the sales, marketing and ticket distribution agent for the Singapore Flyer, said: "the opening of Singapore Flyer will herald a new age for tourism in Singapore, especially with the changing face of Marina Bay and Singapore's efforts to further enhance itself as an exciting cosmopolitan city in the region."

The attraction is expected to welcome 2.5 million visitors in the first year and the operators anticipate corporate bookings and ticketing packages to make up 80% of sales revenue.

The Singapore Flyer was constructed by a consortium comprising Mitsubishi Corporation and Takenaka Corporation of Japan, with construction carried out by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

Meanwhile construction of the world's tallest ferris wheel has began construction in Chao Yang Park in eastern Beijing. When complete the 208 metre high wheel will allow visitors to see as far as to the Great Wall.