Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Local Aviation Industry and Airports in Preparation for Expected Surge in Tourism and Challenges to Meeting Increase in Travel Demand

Mr Desmond Choo asked the Minister for Transport in view of the recent relaxation of COVID-19 border measures under the Vaccinated Travel Framework 

a.     how have the local aviation industry and airports prepared for the expected surge in tourism; and

b.     what are the challenges to meeting the increase in travel demand since the relaxation of COVID-19 border measures.

Reply by Minister for Transport S Iswaran:

1.     The Ministry of Transport, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and other Government agencies are working closely with the Changi Airport Group and other aviation stakeholders to ensure that Changi Airport operates smoothly and safely amidst the growth in travel demand.

2.     The air transport sector lost nearly a third of its workforce during COVID-19. Over the past few months, key stakeholders have ramped up recruitment efforts, recalling experienced workers and hiring new workers to replace those who left. The Government had earlier announced a $500 million "OneAviation Resilience Package" in the 2022/23 financial year, which includes $60 million for manpower support.

3.     To ensure that we uphold high safety standards given the higher flight volumes, CAAS has also stepped up safety oversight activities to ensure that flights operate safely.