The New Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and Changi Airport Group

The new Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and Changi Airport Group celebrated their launch this week.

The two entities, formed from the corporatisation of Changi’s airport operations and restructuring of CAAS, will work together to further develop Singapore as a leading air hub and a global city.

The new CAAS will focus on the development of the air hub and aviation industry in Singapore as a whole as well a the provision of air navigation services. Changi Airport Group will focus on managing and running Changi Airport.

Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Raymond Lim, announced the corporatisation of Changi Airport and the restructuring of CAAS in August 2007. Since then, CAAS has been busy preparing for the transformation.

From airport operations to the corporate functions, every effort has been made to ensure a smooth transition. Operational separation between the two new entities with their assigned staff was smoothly effected three months prior to the eventual corporatisation on 1 July 2009.

The new CAAS will work in partnership with Changi Airport Group to develop Changi Airport as a global air hub, expand Singapore’s links to the rest of the world, and play an active role in promoting and developing the aviation industry in Singapore.

Mr Yap Ong Heng, Director-General, CAAS, said, “CAAS will be an enabler of the civil aviation sector, with the goal of making Singapore a global hub of aviation excellence. We will also enable opportunities through aviation - trade, business and people connections; enterprise and ventures; employment and individual pursuits. Working with our partners and stakeholders, CAAS aims to enhance aviation’s significant contributions to Singapore’s economic development and position as a global city. We also aspire to be a leader in civil aviation, playing a key role in shaping international aviation. To attain our goals, we will build on the CAAS team of people who are committed to the organisation and passionate about aviation.”

Changi Airport Group will manage the airport operations and undertake operational functions focusing on airport operations and management and airport emergency services.

In addition to its role in airport operations, investments in foreign airports will also be under the ambit of Changi Airport Group.

Mr Lee Seow Hiang, Chief Executive Officer of Changi Airport Group, said, “Our mission is to be the world's leading airport company growing a vibrant air hub in Singapore and extending our reach beyond our shores.”

The government also has plans to enter into negotiations with Temasek on the sale of Changi Airport Group to Temasek.

To celebrate Singapore Airport is Offering All Passengers a Special Sin$5 Voucher.

See other recent news regarding: Travel News Asia, Changi, Singapore, Airports, Singapore Airport