Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Singapore-Based Airlines' Updates to Government of Potential Risks Posed to Flight Routes

Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Transport in view of the latest aerial attacks on Israel and the rising level of conflict in the Middle East

a.     whether there are any guidelines or regulations in place for airlines based in Singapore to update the Government of any potential impact or risks posed to their flight routes; and 

b.     whether there is a review process in place to ensure that safety measures concerning the safety of flight routes that are imposed on these airlines are adhered to on a timely basis.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1.     The top priority for the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and Singapore-registered air carriers is to ensure the safety of flights and passengers. 

2.     Singapore-registered air carriers are required by law to conduct a risk assessment and take appropriate risk mitigation measures before every flight, to ensure the safety of the flight. They closely monitor developments around the world where their flights operate, including the current situation in the Middle East, assess the safety risks, and take appropriate measures such as adjusting the flight route to avoid any potential or actual conflict zone. They keep CAAS informed of their assessments and measures taken. 

3.     As part of CAAS’ regular safety audits of the Singapore-registered air carriers, CAAS verifies that the carriers have the processes in place to properly assess and mitigate any flight safety risks, including those arising from conflict zones.