In Parliament
Oral Reply by Senior Minister of State for Transport Dr Lam Pin Min to Parliamentary Question on Disruption of Airport Operations by Drones
14 January 2019
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Ms Foo Mee Har asked the Minister for Transport whether Changi Airport is vulnerable to disruptions caused by drones similar to those at London's Gatwick Airport and, if so, to what extent.
Mr Darryl David asked the Minister for Transport what measures does the Government have against drones or other unmanned aerial devices that may disrupt flight operations in and around airports in Singapore.
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Transport what measures are in place to prevent or stop drones from operating in the vicinity of our airports and affecting flight operations and schedules.
Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for Transport what are the measures to ensure that flying drones do not disrupt the air traffic around Changi Airport.
Reply by Senior Minister of State for Transport Dr Lam Pin Min:
1. We encourage safe and responsible use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) because of the potential benefits. At the same time, we recognise the need to address safety and security concerns that could arise from errant and irresponsible use of UAS.
2. UAS are prohibited from flying within five kilometres of any airport in Singapore without a permit. Law enforcement officers also conduct regular surveillance patrols around the airport, and respond to sightings of unauthorised UAS. Over the past 3 years, there were 8 reports of unauthorised UAS within 5km of Changi Airport. None of the cases involved intrusions into Changi Airport.
3. We have counter-measures to deal with safety and security threats posed by UAS. These efforts are coordinated with the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Home Affairs. Due to security considerations, it would not be appropriate to go into the details.
4. We will continue to monitor developments globally and collaborate with foreign counterparts and industry partners to study and implement additional measures when required.