HISTORY was made at Changi Airport's soon-to-open Terminal 3 on Wednesday evening as Singapore Airlines' first Airbus A380 superjumbo flew in from Toulouse, France, to cheers from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and other VIPs.

Speaking at the welcome ceremony, PM Lee congratulated SIA for 'creating waves' by being the first to operate the largest commercial airliner ever built.

'This first A380 to enter commercial service marks a milestone in aviation history,' said Mr Lee.

Mr Lee commended SIA for continuously sustaining its lead as a 'distinguished leader in the air travel industry, known for its service quality and product innovation'.

He highlighted some advantages of the Airbus A380, like greater efficiency and lower fuel emissions, which will pave the way for the development of new products and services to enhance Singapore Airlines as a global premier airline.

However, Mr Lee noted that SIA's success brings with it intense competition from other airlines.

In order to stay ahead of the competition, Mr Lee believes in having 'a bold vision to develop innovative products and services, and a keen eye on basics like controlling costs, improving service quality and deepening customer loyalty'.

Even with that, Mr Lee says, 'being the top airline' is not enough.

'A good airport infrastructure', he stressed, is also critical to complete the 'travel experience'.

'In this regard, the launch of the A380 is a milestone not just for SIA, but also for Changi Airport,' said Mr Lee.

He cited Changi as a key international airhub and believes its preparedness will continue to strengthen Singapore's position as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific.

Mr Lee also thanked SIA and its partners for raising funds for the less fortunate through its charity auction of the A380 inaugural flight.

That flight is due to take off from Singapore to Sydney on Oct 25.