I still think it's absurd that we're stuck with such a short runway (8,650') for the next 6-7 years, without the slightest inclination to address this.
With Bertie and others going off to China, India and other places trying to build trade and with Asian carriers investing billions in new cargo aircraft (not to mention competition from new EU member states for that business), one can only wonder how many opportunities will be turned away? OK, EI can get away with a short runway for its A330s, but if they want to develop long haul routes seriously (or are they keeping it short just to protect EI?), they need to look at this.
Consider also that with fuel prices rising, not to mention environmental concerns, is it really a good idea that all long haul takeoffs will have to be at full welly (forgive the technical term!)?
Although I don't believe for a moment it will happen, the minister should take action on this; inform the DAA of its decision with a given timeframe (say Summer 2008) and if that's not met, get in a management team from SATS (Changi) or some other major airport mgmt team.