8,000 new jobs expected in Singapore's aviation industry by 2025

Close to 8,000 new jobs will be created or redesigned to enhance productivity of the aviation sector by about 40% over the next eight years, said Singapore's minister for education and second minister for transport Ng Chee Meng at 2017's Aviation Community Reception, hosted by Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).

During the unveiling of the Air Transport Industry Transformation Map (ITM), Ng assured industry workers that new roles would be created and salaries would be improved. With the help of advanced technology and skills training, the aviation sector aims to grow real value-add from about S$7 billion today to S$8 billion by 2020.

CAAS' director-general, Kevin Shum, said: “The aviation sector plays a key role in driving Singapore’s economic growth. The Air Transport ITM is part of the Singapore government’s larger strategy to promote growth and competitiveness for 23 industries across the economy and create good jobs for Singaporeans. As we set our sights on the next phase of the sector’s growth, we are working in close collaboration with tripartite partners - companies and unions - to implement the ITM plans.”

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Ng highlighted that this is a very challenging task as productivity in the sector has historically grown at lower rates. "We must address every aspect of the airport and airline business. Improvements in one area cannot achieve their full potential unless complemented by changes in other areas,” he said.

Ng also urged companies to ramp up the use of technology such as robotics to ease physically demanding and manual tasks in airport operations such that workers can then be freed up to focus on more meaningful and value-added tasks.

Some key initiatives under the Air Transport ITM highlighted in a media release include:

Innovative solutions to improve productivity

• Trials on autonomous systems to move passengers and equipments around the airport
• Prototypes to automate baggage loading and unloading
• Real-time location tracking of airport ground support equipment and cargo shipments
• Digital apps and smart wearables to allow faster response time and optimal decision making

State-of-the-art technology to transform air traffic control operations

The development and trial of a Smart Tower prototype allows air traffic controllers access to advanced surveillance and information tools to manage live air traffic. This will transform air traffic control services by enhancing situational awareness and visibility, as well as improving operational efficiency.

New air transport degree programme  

This programme is developed by CAAS together with a university and industry partners. This will enable the programme to best suit the industry and students’ developmental needs, and attract the right talent.

Funded schemes for retraining and upskilling

Singaporeans can tap on funded schemes such as the SkillsFuture Study Awards for the Air Transport Sector to develop and deepen career-related specialist skills. The Professional Conversion Programme (PCP) helps mid-career Singaporeans undergo both classroom and structured on-the-job training, to prepare them for job opportunities as well as career progression in the aviation sector.

Lead photo / 123RF Infographic / CAAS