Past Events

Events 2024
  • AAIS Year-End Networking Evening

    On the evening of 4 December, AAIS brought together its members and the Singapore UAS community for its Year-End Networking Evening. Partners and special guests joined members from across the industry at Amara Singapore for a night of camaraderie and festive cheer, capping off another dynamic year for the Association.

    The programme began with a warm welcome and reflections by 1st Vice President, Mr Pang Yong Kiang, who shared highlights of 2024. This was followed by updates from our Chief Executive, Mr Sia Kheng Yok, who outlined aspirations for the year ahead. He called on members to engage actively in upcoming initiatives to strengthen the aerospace community.

     

    Adding a dash of excitement to the evening, the Icebreaker Quiz tested everyone’s knowledge of AAIS. With tricky questions and hearty cheers for the correct answers, the activity set a lighthearted tone for the evening. Guests enjoyed a delectable spread, including sushi, pizza, and laksa, complemented by wine, beer, and other refreshments from the bar. Conversations flowed freely as attendees mingled and celebrated the festive spirit.

    A highlight of the evening was a toast by 2nd Vice President, Mr Raymond Lim, whose remarks combined well wishes for the new year with a humorous reminder about membership renewals. The event concluded with the highly anticipated Lucky Draw, where delighted winners claimed prizes, including bottles of wine, dining vouchers, and a staycation.

    As the night drew to a close, attendees exchanged warm farewells, with promises to reconnect in 2025 at future AAIS events.

    AAIS thanks all who attended for making this year-end event a success. We look forward to continuing the journey together in 2025. Stay connected for upcoming activities and initiatives!

     

  • Singapore UAS Community @ Expand Space

    The inaugural Expand Space event, organised by Space Faculty, took place on Friday, 22 November 2024, at Marina Bay Sands. An intimate but impactful conference and exhibition, the event served as a platform for youths and young professionals to explore exciting possibilities and ignite their passion for Deep Tech.

    Featuring interactive zones in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), Space, and Robotics, the event offered learning experiences to inspire participants to delve deeper into emerging technologies. A highlight was the 25 Future Careers Showcase, which introduced attendees to career opportunities in space and major Deep Tech domains such as robotics and AI.

    The Singapore UAS Community by AAIS added to the excitement with its participation in the table top exhibition and the Future Careers Showcase. The booth highlighted cutting-edge technologies in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), offering participants valuable insights into this developing sector. A heartfelt thank you goes to Skyports, ST Engineering, and Heron AirBridge for their strong support and significant contributions to these efforts.

     

    The event drew over 700 participants, including youths, parents, educators, industry partners, and government agencies. A highlight was the keynote by 2nd Minister for Trade and Industry Dr Tan See Leng, who outlined the immense potential of the global space economy. He noted its projected growth to $1.8 trillion by 2035, nearly triple its current value, and underscored Singapore’s commitment to seize opportunities in this sector. Efforts include the expansion of the mandate of the Office for Space Technology and Industry (OSTIn) as Singapore’s national space office, and a continued focus on STEM education to cultivate a robust pipeline of talent for roles in the space and technology industries.

     

    The event also saw the launch of the STEM Foundation, a non-profit initiative by Space Faculty. Dedicated to empowering underprivileged youths, the foundation will support some 100 children in STEM programmes such as coding, life sciences, robotics, and space technology, complementing government efforts to foster a more inclusive and tech-ready workforce.

     

  • Exclusive Visit to Transport Safety Investigation Bureau


    AAIS organised an exclusive visit for its members to the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) on 7 November 2024.

    Hosted by Mr Steven Teo, Deputy Director (Air Safety Investigation) and Head (Operations). The visit offered a glimpse into TSIB’s crucial role in investigating air, marine, and rail accidents and incidents in Singapore.

    Steven and his team provided a comprehensive overview of their work at the TSIB and explained how safety investigations focus on understanding events rather than to apportion blame or liability. The session featured a sensory activity that allowed participants to examine the equipment utilised by investigators during actual investigations. Participants also received a guided tour of the TSIB equipment room, teardown lab, and flight recorder lab.

    Interactive Q&A sessions with members fostered lively discussions, sparking clarifications and interesting exchanges throughout the visit. On behalf of AAIS and our members, we thank the TSIB, Steven, and his team for hosting this informative session.

  • RSAF Airbase Civil Engineering Squadrons Visit Changi Airport Group

    On 6 November 2024, AAIS facilitated a visit to Changi Airport Group (CAG) for attendees from RSAF involved in maintenance and engineering support for the Air Base infrastructures, platforms and critical support systems.

    The group consisted of air force engineers from various squadrons (208, 505, 508 and 808).

    Upon the group’s arrival, our host CAG gave a warm welcome to our participants. During the session, the participants engaged actively with questions, and our hosts addressed a range of topics regarding digitalisation and automation efforts in asset maintenance and management, and other relevant subjects.

    The visit ended with a guided tour of the Fault Management Centre that provided participants with a firsthand view of these systems in action.

    AAIS is pleased to participate in this facilitation, which originated from the initial Learning Journey organised for our RSAF Members in June 2024. On behalf of AAIS and our participants, we extend our thanks to our CAG host.

  • Visit by Gyeonggi and Busan-Jinhae K-FEZ

    AAIS hosted Korean Free Economic Zone (K-FEZ) delegates from Gyeonggi and Busan-Jinhae regions on 30 Oct 2024, at Seletar Aerospace Park. The delegates were welcomed by AAIS Chief Executive and given a briefing on Singapore’s aerospace industry. The delegates shared about their interest to attract Singapore business investments in their respective regions, highlighting opportunities for activities relating to Aerospace, Drones, Robotics etc.

    Busan-Jinhae Free Economic Zone (BJFEZ) is located in Changwon, Gyeongnam province. It covers a total of almost 50 sq km. Targeted sectors include advanced manufacturing (electric vehicle components, marine equipment and robotics. There are also opportunities relating to port and logistics (transportation, cold chain, food, pharmaceutical etc), industry 4.0 and the medical and education sectors.

    The Gyeonggi Free Economic Zone (GGFEZ) is a total of over 5 km of land located in three districts around Pyeongtaek Port. Siheung Baegot District is positioning itself for R&D in unmanned ground/underground and aerial vehicles. Pyeongtaek Poseung District is targeting automotive, chemical, electronic industries and Hyeongdeok District is meant for distribution businesses and industry.

    We thank KOTRA for facilitating the visit and exchange of information. We invite members to contact AAIS secretariat should there be interest in K-FEZ opportunities.

     

     

  • AAIS 22nd Annual General Meeting

    The 22nd AAIS Annual General Meeting (AGM) was successfully held on 25 October 2024, with a strong turnout from AAIS members. Early arrivals took the opportunity to reconnect before the commencement of the formal proceedings.

    The AGM opened with remarks by AAIS President Wong Yue Jeen, who reflected on the growth and promising trajectory of Singapore’s aerospace industry. He highlighted the various ways AAIS has been supporting the industry, citing several key initiatives over the past year, including:

    • Workforce development through the Career Conversion Programme (CCP) for Aerospace.
    • Supplier resilience and ecosystem development through initiatives such as the Promising Entrepreneurs Programme (PEP).
    • Strategic partnerships with government agencies
    • Fostering an inclusive community through collaborations such as the MOU with the RSAF, ensuring representation across various sectors.

    Honorary Secretary Ms Lim Hee Joo followed with highlights from the Annual Report, and Honorary Treasurer Mr Desmond Goh reported on the financial performance for the past fiscal year. During the proceedings, members endorsed the FY2023/24 Annual Report and the audited Financial Report. Members also approved the reappointment of Mr Paul Sandosham of Clifford Chance as Honorary Legal Advisor, and Ernst & Young as Honorary External Auditor, expressing gratitude for their ongoing service.

     

     

    Election of Vice-Presidents
    An election was held for two vacant Vice President positions on the Management Committee. With one nominee each for the roles of 1st Vice President and 2nd Vice President, AAIS members welcomed

    1st Vice President:
    Mr Pang Yong Kiang
    General Manager, Pratt & Whitney Component Solutions / Component Aerospace Services

    2nd Vice President:
    Mr Raymond Lim
    Head of Customer Services Asia Pacific, Airbus Commercial Aircraft

     

     

    The AGM also recognised the dedication of long-standing Management Committee members who have recently stepped down – Mr Richard Wong, who served AAIS since his election in 2018 and held the position of 1st Vice President from 2019 to 2024; and Dr Kenneth Low, who was co-opted as a Management Committee member through consecutive appointments from 2018 to 2024.

    In his closing remarks, President Wong outlined key initiatives for the upcoming year, including the formation of AAIS-Affiliated Student Clubs and Aerospace Day 2025. He also highlighted the recent launch of the Singapore Space Community to serve as a focal point for members’ space-related interests and shared that AAIS will be publishing the first Singapore Space Directory. Mr Wong also reiterated AAIS’s ongoing commitment to core focus areas for the aerospace industry, including innovation, supplier resilience, and sustainability, with an emphasis on quality and safety.

    Following the AGM, members were treated to an exclusive briefing on the Singapore Space Industry by Mr Jonathan Hung, Executive Director at the Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn). Mr Hung offered valuable insights into the rapidly expanding space economy, government investments in R&D, and emerging projects and business opportunities in Singapore and the region. As Singapore’s national space office, OSTIn plays a pivotal role in shaping space policies, fostering international partnerships, and building a competitive space ecosystem and talent pool.

     

    AAIS warmly extends our thanks to Workforce Singapore for its sponsorship of the event and our member Bombardier Singapore for graciously hosting and facilitating the occasion. We also appreciate the support of all members who attended, as well as members Wah Son and Bell for supporting parking arrangements.

     

     

     

  • RSAF Members Visit Fokker Services Asia

    On 24 October 2024, RSAF Members visited the Fokker Services Asia (FSA) facility at Seletar Aerospace Park. Established since 1997, FSA is a leading provider of airframe MRO services in the Asia-Pacific region, specialising in Fokker and ATR aircraft.

    The event began with a warm welcome by Mr Thomas Kennedy, Managing Director of Fokker Services Asia. Participants were then guided by Mr Eric Lim, Sales Director, on a tour through FSA’s impressive 14,800-square-meter facility, where they observed advanced maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) processes. Key highlights included demonstrations of FSA’s ERP system, the Component Maintenance Repair Overhaul (CMRO) for specialised parts, and a lamination applicator used for heavy-duty repairs on components.

    Towards the end of the visit, the participants engaged in meaningful discussions covering topics on operational practices, the integration of emerging technologies, and the impact of regulatory changes on the sector.

    On behalf of AAIS and our participants, we extend our thanks to our FSA host.

  • Aerospace Open Innovation Challenge Demo Day

    The Aerospace Open Innovation Challenge (AOIC) Demo Day was held on 17 October at the new Embry-Riddle Asia campus in Seletar.

    About AOIC

    Organised by JTC and Enterprise Singapore, with support from AAIS and EDB, the AOIC was first introduced at the Singapore Airshow in February. This initiative brought together seven leading aerospace companies which submitted a total of 12 challenge statements, addressing practical and real-world industry issues. In response, over 130 technology providers stepped forward, offering an impressive variety of innovative solutions.

    After a rigorous selection process in collaboration with AOIC partners, eight outstanding solutions were chosen and showcased at Demo Day. The strong interest from the industry was evident, with over 100 professionals and representatives from various companies and agencies attending to learn more about these innovative solutions.

    Kicking off the programme with her opening remarks, JTC’s Acting Director Aerospace & Precision Engineering Cluster Ms Lim Wee Lee highlighted the importance of open innovation and collaboration, reflecting on the challenge’s success in providing corporate partners with fresh, innovative solutions, while bringing solution providers closer to industry and valuable opportunities to address real-world problems.

    AAIS Chief Executive Mr Sia Kheng Yok echoed this sentiment, noting the intensive nature of the shortlisting process and quality of submissions. The solutions presented hold potential for applications beyond their initial scope while those not shortlisted could also offer value to other aerospace companies. He encouraged innovators to engage with the association as it continues to foster an innovative aerospace community.

     

    Participating Companies and Their Solutions

    Solutions presented at Demo Day ranged from autonomous baggage and cargo handling systems to AI-driven process and compliance systems, bird deterrent solutions for hangars, waste heat capture technologies, and mobile solar energy platforms. In lightning rounds, attendees posed questions to solution providers, gaining deeper insights into the technical considerations and feasibility of each innovation.

    • Antomation: Cargo Cobra – A fully automated baggage loading and unloading system inspired by the movement of snakes, designed to navigate tight spaces and streamline cargo handling. Equipped with machine vision that creates a 3D map of the cargo hold, a flexible, custom-built loader ensures precise and efficient loading and unloading operations.
    • Soji AI: An AI-powered internal GPT system that provides real-time support for MRO operations. Operators can ask questions and receive verified answers, accurately extracted from relevant technical documents. Engineered to minimise errors and eliminate AI-generated “hallucinations,” the solution can be integrated with Work Cards, Historical Maintenance Records, ERP, and other internal systems
    • Motionwell: A Robotic Composite Repair System uses a force-control robotic system combined with a 3D scanner to precisely sand carbon composite laminates for repair procedures. Another system, utilising a robotic arm equipped with a force-control tool and colour-sensing camera, enables accurate and precise paint removal from nacelles.
    • Ironyun: Vaidio – An AI-powered bird deterrent system for hangars that uses cameras and laser beams. The AI identifies birds and harmlessly deters them without impacting other elements in the environment.
    • WeavAI: Optical Bird Deterrent System combines radar sensors, IoT, and lasers to deter birds, even in low-light conditions where traditional cameras fall short.
    • ESG-MD: TROM AI (Tomorrow’s Resources Orchestration Management) – A custom AI platform automating and streamlining compliance by integrating a knowledge base of airworthiness and maintenance directives. With AI algorithms and large language models, engineers input project details to receive tailored compliance assessments and predictive forecasts for future compliance needs.
    • Climacircuit: An advanced thermoelectric generator designed to capture waste heat from furnaces. Utilising a novel micro-lattice design created through additive manufacturing, this solution achieves up to 12% efficiency at peak operating temperatures and can handle a wide range of heat levels, from 150°C to 500°C, maximising energy recovery.
    • Launch Industries and The Interaction Company: A solar energy solution utilising mobile containers with retractable solar panels for easy deployment. Deployable within three hours, this setup spans up to 180 meters, enabling efficient use of underutilised land for solar energy capture.

    In closing, Mr Tan Boon Kim, Executive Director for Innovation at Enterprise Singapore highlighted that Demo Day marked a key milestone, celebrating the progress made and collaborative efforts achieved. The demand-led approach of Open Innovation fostered a mutually beneficial setup for corporate stakeholders and SMEs/startups alike, by connecting industry challenges with novel ideas to accelerate and catalyse innovation.

    Guests also heard from Mr Matthew Flaherty, Vice Chancellor and Head of Asia at ERAU, on Embry-Riddle’s offerings in aeronautics, aerospace, and aviation programmes. Following the formal programme, attendees enjoyed a vibrant networking reception, further fostering connections within the aerospace innovation community.

    Congratulations to all presenting companies for their groundbreaking solutions, and to AOIC partners for the successful and impactful initiative!

       

     

  • International Delegation from the Aviation Foundation Programme

    On 15 October 2024, AAIS welcomed international guests from the Aviation Foundation Programme, organised by the Singapore Aviation Academy (SAA), to Seletar Aerospace Park. The visit was part of a field trip segment organised in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and SAA. The delegation comprised officials and representatives from various small nation states, providing a platform for valuable cross-border exchanges and engagement.

    During the visit, AAIS Chief Executive delivered a seminar that focused on the role of aerospace associations in supporting and representing industry interests. This included an overview of how associations serve as the voice of the aerospace industry, advocating on behalf of their members at both national and international levels. Emphasis was also placed on the importance of associations in fostering collaboration and facilitating networking opportunities, thereby adding substantial value to their members.

    The seminar delved into international and regional alliances, such as the Global Aerospace Cluster Partnership, which connects over 60 aerospace associations and their members. There were also robust discussions on the pivotal role that associations play in supporting organisations like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and national aviation authorities. Through the auspices of entities such as the International Coordinating Council of Aerospace Industries Associations (ICCAIA), national and regional associations contribute to the development of industry standards and harmonisation of regulatory practices.

    CE also shared insights into AAIS’s role as the voice of the aerospace industry in Singapore. He elaborated on how the association facilitates business opportunities, fosters a sense of community among members, and represents their collective views in policy discussions.

    A Q&A session followed the presentation, where participants raised questions about best practices for consulting with members and influencing policy decisions in the aerospace sector. There was also interest about the financial sustainability of aerospace associations. CE shared that while government funding is an option, AAIS primarily relies on membership fees to fund its activities.

    The visit proved to be a successful engagement, providing participants, including future leaders and policymakers, with valuable insights into the work of aerospace associations and their contributions to the industry.

  • SG UAS Community – Oktoberfest Networking

    On 11th October 2024, the Singapore UAS Community gathered at Brotzeit, Vivocity, for a lively Oktoberfest-themed networking event, generously sponsored by Frequentis. The evening kicked off with participants enjoying specialty Oktoberfest drinks and a free flow of delicious meat platters and apple strudel.

     

    One of the event’s highlights was the Stein Holding Competition (Masskrugstemmen), which saw David Sim from Republic Polytechnic, Sebastian Aldeco of Heron Airbridge, and Edmund Lim from ADAM (Academy of Design Arts and Media Pte Ltd) going head-to-head. With sheer determination and endurance, David triumphed, holding his steins (filled with water) with a straight arm for the longest time.

    Meanwhile, Levinia from Skyports, Angelin from RSAF, and Diane Tan of MicroNav engaged in a friendly yet fierce competition of Hammerschlagen, attempting to drive a nail into a wooden stump. Levinia emerged victorious with impressive skill and speed.

     

    The festivities culminated in a thrilling lucky draw, where familiar faces were delighted to claim coveted prizes. As the evening drew to a close, everyone present raised their steins/ drinks for a traditional Oktoberfest toast, celebrating a successful evening of fun, networking, and camaraderie.

     

  • AAIS’ first year as professional development partner for Air Force Engineers

    AAIS-RSAF members visit Changi Airport Group

    Visit to SIAEC safety centres

    SAR66 preparatory training participants

    AAIS marked its first year as the professional development partner for Air Force Engineers (AFEs), having signed an MOU with the Republic of Singapore Air Force in July 2023. In a bespoke arrangement, more than 300 AFEs opted in to participate in tailored programmes under our corporate partnership with the RSAF. In the course of FY2023/24,

    1. 82 AFEs attended SAR66 preparatory training on M03 Electrical Fundamentals, M06 Materials and Hardware, and M08 Basic Aerodynamics.
    2. learning journeys were organised for a total of 60 participants to Bell Textron Asia, Changi Airport Group, SIA Engineering Company’s Aviation and Workplace Safety Centres, Volocopter Showcase at ITE, and SESTO Robotics and Hope Technik.
    3. AFEs were also invited to aerospace conferences and seminars in the calendar, including the Singapore Aerospace Technology Leadership Forum co-organised with A*STAR, seminars on ‘Unlocking Procurement Wins’ and the ‘Singapore Sustainable Air Hub Blueprint’, and webinars on Autonomous Drone Technologies, eVTOLs, and the Aerospace Open Innovation Challenge briefing.
    4. There was also opportunities to learn about the latest trends by visiting tradeshows such as MRO Asia Pacific, Global Urban & Advanced Air Summit Asia, Singapore Airshow, and Drones and Uncrewed Asia.

    In the first months of the new financial year, we have opened additional opportunities for more AFEs to visit SIA Engineering’s safety centres, Changi Airport Group operations centre, Fokker Services Asia, Transport Investigation and Safety Bureau, and seminars/workshops on AI in Aviation, and Responsible Sourcing. We also thank the RSAF for their participation and support for ARTC’s Aerospace Pillar Technology Forum, Aerospace Open Innovation Challenge Demo Day, and our Annual General Meeting. We look forward to designing new programmes and working with partners to develop more relevant content for the professional development of AFEs.

     

  • Seminar: Integrating Sustainability and Responsible Sourcing

    AAIS in collaboration with LRQA held a seminar on “Integrating Sustainability and Responsible Sourcing into Your Organisation” on 27 September 2024. The event brought together aerospace professionals to discuss sustainability in operations as well as responsible sourcing, increasingly important aspects in meeting industry regulations and expectations.

    Michael Daniel, an AAIS Panel of Expert member, opened with a sharing on counterfeit and suspected unapproved parts in aerospace system, including alleged bogus parts and documentation fraud, avionics theft and others. He discussed the FAA’s Suspected Unapproved Parts (SUP) programme, explaining how stakeholders can report suspicious activities. Michael also highlighted the growing threat of counterfeit parts and outlined steps for organisations to mitigate risks, particularly through proper data plate identification and avoiding fraudulent markings.

    Katie Yewdall, Director of Sustainability Consulting at LRQA Asia Pacific, followed with a session on integrating sustainability into aerospace operations. She outlined key regulations and offered a step-by-step guide on managing carbon emissions, with a focus on Scope 3 emissions and setting decarbonisation targets. Kathy underscored the importance of industry-wide collaboration to achieve long-term sustainability.

    Participants enjoyed robust discussions with speakers and the networking reception. AAIS thanks all speakers and participants for their contributions and looks forward to more collaborations and exchanges to drive advancements in the aerospace sector.

     

  • MRO Asia-Pacific 2024 Exhibition

    MRO Asia-Pacific 2024, held at Singapore Expo from 24 to 26 September, reaffirmed its status as the premier event for the region’s commercial air transport maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector. With an expanded exhibition across two halls and a strong turnout of trade visitors, the bustling event offered an essential platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and explore the latest trends and innovations in MRO.

     

    The Singapore Pavilion, coordinated by AAIS, highlighted the diverse capabilities of 22 Singapore-based enterprises. From aerospace manufacturing and MRO services to digital technologies and support solutions, the pavilion attracted a steady stream of visitors.

    Among key visitors to the pavilion was YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor Exco for Investment, Trade, and Mobility,  further underscoring strong business ties between Singapore and Malaysia. Next-generation SME leaders from the inaugural cohort of AAIS’ Promising Entrepreneurs Programme also seized the opportunity to reconnect with each other and engage with contacts from their recent industry study visit to Bangkok.

     

     

    AAIS members also took the opportunity to announce exciting developments and outstanding achievements. We  congratulate and celebrate:

    • Acme Manufacturing Singapore on their 5th Anniversary.
    • Eaton Aerospace and SIA Engineering Company Limited on the unveiling of their joint venture, Eaton Aerospace Component Services Asia Sdn. Bhd.
    • Fokker Services Asia for their appointment as Embraer Authorized Service Center, to provide maintenance services for the E-Jets first-generation family, focusing on the E190.
    • Singapore Polytechnic and JADE Engineering for the launch of their new Flammability Test Lab at  SP’s Aero Hub Facility.
    • Liebherr-Aerospace and Asia Digital Engineering for their collaboration to enhance predictive maintenance capabilities for the Airbus A320ceo/neo.
    • SIA Engineering Company for winning “Aftermarket Service Provider of the Year” and “Marketing Campaign of the Year” at the MRO Asia-Pacific Awards 2024.

    The positive feedback from both exhibitors and trade visitors is a testament to the event’s growing influence and the rising demand for MRO solutions across the region. Many attendees expressed a desire for more time to fully explore the pavilion and connect with key contacts.

    We look forward to the next edition of MRO Asia-Pacific scheduled for 17–18 September 2025.

    Singapore Pavilion Exhibitors at MRO Asia-Pacific 2024 

    Download the Singapore Pavilion Exhibitors Guide

    Re-live the buzz – SG Pavilion @ MRO APAC 2024

     

  • AAIS & Embassy of Ireland: MRO Market Briefing & Networking

    As a prelude to MRO Asia-Pacific and in close partnership with Enterprise Ireland, AAIS was proud to organise a Market Highlight Briefing and Networking session on 23rd September 2024. Hosted at the new Ireland House (Embassy of Ireland in Singapore), the event brought together key players from the Irish and Singaporean aviation and aerospace sectors for an insightful exchange of market trends and opportunities.

    The event began with a warm welcome from Mr Kevin Ryan, Enterprise Ireland’s Director – ASEAN, who touched on exciting activities and opportunities in the Irish aviation industries. Mr Graham Hartnett, Deputy Head of Mission and AAIS Chief Executive Mr Sia Kheng Yok followed with brief remarks. 

    A highlight of the session was an engaging market briefing by Mr Richard Brown, Managing Director of Naveo Consultancy, providing valuable insights into current market trends. Note-worthy points include:

    • Fleet Status: As of September 2024, approximately 81% of the global air transport fleet (35,746 aircraft) is in active service. The Asia Pacific region, incl. China and India, continues to drive strong demand for new aircraft, accounting for nearly 37% of the global order book of ~20,540 aircraft.
    • Promising Recovery: The sector is well on track to full recovery, with global air transport flying hours from January-August 2024 at 10% higher compared to the same period in 2023.
    • MRO Market: The global MRO market is expected to reach US$105 billion in 2024, with the Asia Pacific region, incl. China, contributing to 34% of the global market. Engine maintenance remains the primary driver of MRO spending, followed by component and line maintenance.
    • Projections: The global MRO market is forecasted to grow at 3% CAGR from 2024 to 2033, and the market in APAC incl. China and India is expected to reach US$47B by 2033.
    • Supply chain challenges and technical durability issues remain a concern, with MRO facilities facing bottlenecks, in-service issues, and extended repair lead times.

    Following the briefing, participants engaged in lively discussions and networking, exchanging ideas and building valuable connections. The event was a resounding success, providing attendees with insights and fostering close ties between the Irish and Singapore aviation and aerospace communities. We thank the Embassy of Ireland and our member Enterprise Ireland for the fruitful partnership.

       

       

     

  • Visit of Korean Delegation to Seletar Aerospace Park

    AAIS was pleased to host a delegation from the Korean Aerospace Industries Association (KAIA) at Seletar Aerospace Park on 23 September 2024. Led by KAIA Vice President, Mr Lee Sangsub, the delegation also included Mr Ahn Hyunsu, CEO of ANH Structure. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to exchange insights on the latest developments in the aerospace sectors of both South Korea and Singapore.

    South Korea’s aerospace industry has been growing steadily in recent years, with growth averaging 12% annually over the last five years. In 2022, the industry’s output reached approximately US$7.7 billion, with space projects accounting for a notable 35% of this total. The establishment of the Korean Aerospace Administration (KASA) earlier this year is expected to drive further expansion in Korea’s space sector.

    Aircraft manufacturing and MRO continue to be important segments with parts manufacturing accounting for 14%, engine parts contributing 10%, and MRO activities representing 4% of total aerospace output.  Indigenous aircraft programmes including the KF-21 “Boramae” fighter jet and the  KUH-1 “Surion” utility helicopter account for 9% and 11% of the industry’s output, respectively. Additionally, South Korea is focusing on expanding its MRO sector through the development of dedicated industrial parks in Sacheon and Jinju​. Like other developed economies, the sector faces challenges, including sustaining a strong talent pipeline and attracting skilled professionals to meet growing demands in aerospace engineering and MRO roles.

    AAIS Chief Executive, in turn, shared key updates on Singapore’s aviation and aerospace landscape, highlighting the Singapore Pavilion exhibitors ahead of MRO Asia-Pacific 2024. The exchange of information between AAIS and KAIA laid the groundwork for potential collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

    Members interested in learning more about opportunities in Korea or participating in B2B shows such as Seoul ADEX (October 2025) are encouraged to reach out to the AAIS Secretariat.

           

  • AAIS Futsal Tournament 2024

    The much-anticipated AAIS Annual Futsal Tournament took place on 14 September 2024 at a new venue, KickOff! at Hougang. This year’s tournament brought together 28 teams from across the aerospace and aviation industries. There was an electric atmosphere as friendly but intense competition filled the air, with teams battling it out in a series of high-energy matches. The audience was treated to moments of brilliant play, rapid counterattacks, and heart-pounding last-minute goals that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

    As the dust settled, GE Aerospace Team 2 from GE Aviation, Engine Services – Singapore emerged victorious, clinching the championship with their well-coordinated attacks and relentless defence. RTX-HS B, representing Hamilton Sundstrand Pacific Aerospace put up a valiant effort and claimed the 1st runner-up position. Meanwhile, TOS 1 of Turbine Overhaul Services secured the 2nd runner-up place and EC Boys from SIA Engineering Company took the 3rd runner-up position. Mr Khairul Annas Ahmad, in the #30 jersey of GE Aerospace Team 2, was awarded Most Valuable Player for his outstanding performance on the field.

    Beyond camaraderie and sportsmanship, the tournament showcased the players’ remarkable resilience and teamwork. We extend our warmest congratulations to all the winners, who were presented with medals, trophies and cash gifts by AAIS Management Committee members Mr Oliver Chamberlain (Rolls-Royce Singapore), Mr Pang Yong Kian (Pratt & Whitney Component Solutions), and Mr Sia Kheng Yok, AAIS Chief Executive.

    A big thank you to all who participated and supported the event! We look forward to more exciting events ahead!

    View and Download Photos here!
    Photos to be credited to “Aerophotoworks for AAIS”

     

  • Visit by Hainan Delegation to Seletar Aerospace Park

    AAIS Honorary Secretary and Chief Executive were pleased to welcome a delegation from Hainan to Seletar Aerospace Park on 6 September 2024. Led by Mr Yu Xiang, Deputy Director of the Hainan Provincial Department of Commerce, the delegation included representatives from Hainan Economic Development Bureau, Haikou Municipal Bureau of Commerce, Haikou Jiangdong New District Administration, and Haikou Airport Industry Development Group Co. Ltd.

    After presenting an update on Singapore’s aviation hub status and aerospace industry developments, we also discussed Hainan’s ambitions as a regional hub – its free port development and interest to attract investments in MRO. Should AAIS members be interested to connect on opportunities in Hainan, please contact the AAIS secretariat.

  • Aerospace Partners Golf Tournament 2024

    The annual Aerospace Partners’ Golf Tournament (APGT), co-organised by AAIS, teed off again at Tanah Merah Country Club’s Tampines Course on 16 August 2024. As a premier event on our calendar, this year’s APGT attracted over 100 golfers from across the aerospace industry. Continuing a tradition spanning more than two decades, APGT once again showcased the aerospace community’s steadfast support for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore (CPAS).

    Golfers enjoyed a beautiful day on the course, with challenging new holes and fun novelty side challenges. Roving buggies kept everyone hydrated and fueled throughout the day. This year, aerospace C-suite executives and managers were joined by press flights featuring local personalities such as Glenn Ong, Vernetta Lopez, and Chen Tianwen

     

    View all photos from the golf tournament here

    The evening programme kicked off after pre-dinner wine-tasting, with a captivating performance by the Boys’ Brigade bagpipe band. A highlight of the networking dinner was the CPAS Art Auction, featuring five unique artworks created by CPAS beneficiaries. The aerospace community responded generously, contributing significantly to this worthy cause. The evening concluded with the tournament’s prize presentation and an exciting raffle draw, where lucky winners walked away with attractive prizes.

     

    The APGT was a day filled with friendly competition, giving back to the community, and building connections within the aerospace industry. On behalf of this year’s APGT Chairman, Mr Desmond Goh, and members of the APGT Organising Committee, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants, sponsors, donors, and volunteers for their generosity and outstanding support. All net proceeds from the event will be donated to CPAS. To learn more or make a personal contribution, please visit CPAS Website.

      

    View more photos from the evening programme here

    Congratulations to all winners!

    Tournament Results (Double Preoria)
    Champion: Rong Ming (8B)
    1st Runner Up: Rahul Shah (8A)
    2nd Runner Up: Austin Major (5A)

    Team Champion: Flight 8B

    Novelty Holes
    Nearest to Pin (Hole 6): Paul Ashcroft (16A)
    Longest Drive (Hole 10) <50: Sean Lim (12A)
    Longest Drive (Hole 10) >50: Philip Ang (8A)

     

  • Inaugural Aerospace Sustainability Community of Practice

    On 15 August 2024, AAIS joined hands with JTC to organise the inaugural Aerospace Sustainability Community of Practice (COP) held at the JTC Business Centre in Seletar Aerospace Park (SAP). The forum serves as an active platform for the aerospace industry to discuss and advance sustainability initiatives and practices.

    At this first COP session, JTC introduced a sustainability framework tailored for industry parks, which could be piloted at SAP. This initiative stems from a sustainability performance review of SAP conducted by AAIS, following an appointment by JTC. The review aimed to enhance SAP’s appeal to both existing and prospective investors while aligning with national sustainability goals. Key findings from the review were presented, including insights into SAP’s energy and water consumption and a dipstick survey on sustainability activities by SAP lessees. The report proposed adopting an international framework for Eco-Industrial Parks (EIPs) developed by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization. The COP itself was also a key recommendation from this review, intended to facilitate collective knowledge sharing and spark ideas for collaboration and community action.

    Following this presentation, representatives from PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, delivered a session on Water Demand Management, showcasing best practices and case studies from industries across Singapore. They also discussed the Water Efficiency Fund, available to support these initiatives, and explored the potential of rainwater harvesting for industry use. Following this, Enterprise Singapore presented updates on the Aerospace Open Innovation Challenge (AOIC), which was launched in February 2024, featuring 12 challenge statements. Sustainability-related challenges include waste heat recovery, waste segregation and disposal, CO2 emissions capture and storage, and the deployment of mobile solar PV platforms to optimise land use.

    The session concluded with a robust Q&A, where participants shared their perspectives, challenges and practices in managing electricity and water consumption. Participants and speakers also explored how the SAP community, facilitated by JTC, could collaborate on rainwater harvesting, water management, waste management and other initiatives. JTC also discussed the potential interim use of vacant land for solar deployment.

    We extend our sincere thanks to all participants and speakers from PUB and Enterprise Singapore for making the first COP a success. We look forward to continuing the dialogue and leveraging platforms like AOIC and COP, to encourage industry collaboration on sustainability.

     

     

  • Second Run of M08 Basic Aerodynamics

    The second cohort of M08 Basic Aerodynamics preparatory classes commenced on 3 August 2024. This course is a key component of the Singapore Airworthiness Requirements Part 66 preparatory training offered by AAIS to Member Plus+ candidates enrolled in our RSAF membership program.

    The module delves into the fundamental principles of aerodynamics, exploring how even minor modifications to aircraft physical structures can significantly impact flight performance. Through this training, participants will deepen their understanding of aerodynamic functioning, leading to more informed considerations regarding aircraft airworthiness.

    We extend our best wishes to all participants as they embark on this journey of professional growth!

  • Dialogue with Selangor State EXCO and trade delegation

    In conjunction with a visit by a trade delegation from the Malaysian state of Selangor, AAIS facilitated an exclusive dialogue with its members on 1 August 2024 at Orchard Hotel Singapore. Sponsored by Selangor Aviation Innovation and Technology Sdn Bhd (SELATI), the event featured the Honorable Dr Mohamad Fahmi bin Ngah, Selangor State Exco for Islamic Affairs, Halal Industry, Cultural Innovation, Science Technology & Innovation. It provided a platform for AAIS members and the Singapore UAS Community to learn about the latest developments in Selangor’s aerospace, UAS, and AAM ecosystem, and to network with key officials, including representatives from the Selangor State Government, Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporation (MBI) and SmartSel Sdn Bhd.

    The event commenced with welcome remarks from AAIS President Wong Yue Jeen, who emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and growth for aerospace, UAS, and AAM in the region. YB Dr Mohamad Fahmi echoed this sentiment in his opening address, where he invited aerospace companies to explore business opportunities in Selangor, assuring them of the state’s support in developing these sectors.

     

    Following the opening remarks, Mr Jamie Haniff Ramlee, Managing Director of SELATI, provided an insightful briefing on Selangor’s aerospace, UAM, and AAM industries. His presentation covered ambitious plans for the Selangor Aerospace Park, a 2,000-acre industrial zone near Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and the Subang Airport Regeneration Plan, which aims to transform Subang into a city airport, attracting business and general aviation. Mr Jamie also discussed the Selangor Drone Centre of Excellence (SDCOE), which is being developed by SELATI to offer facilities for rigorous drone testing and development, innovation, and collaboration among industry players. He highlighted the Malaysian government’s initiatives and policies that support aerospace and drone technology.

     

    Dr Leo Jeoh, CEO of STATE Aviation Pte Ltd then provided an update on the UAS sector development in Singapore. His session covered various topics, including industry development, policy and regulations, the current state of the Singapore UAS industry, UAS test beds, UTM developments, advanced air mobility, and opportunities in the sector. Following that, Dr Jeoh moderated an interactive Q&A and dialogue session, where participants engaged with Y.B. Dr. Mohamad Fahmi and the Selangor delegates. This session facilitated a robust exchange of ideas and insights, discussions on economic and industry development plans, addressing challenges, and exploring opportunities for collaboration and growth.

     

    To conclude the event, AAIS President presented tokens of appreciation, to YB Dr Fahmi Ngah, Mr Jamie Haniff Ramlee, and Dr Leo Jeoh. In return, the Selangor delegation presented a token to AAIS. The formal programme concluded with a networking tea reception, providing attendees with the opportunity to continue their discussions and forge new connections in an informal setting.

    From left: AAIS Ag VP Mr Desmond Goh, Dr Leo Jeoh, AAIS President Mr Wong Yue Jeen, YB Dr Mohamad Fahmi Ngah, CFO MBI Mdm Zannifa Azura Ahmad, Mr Jamie Haniff Ramlee

    We extend our heartfelt thanks to YB Tuan Dr Mohamad Fahmi Ngah, the Selangor delegates, Dr Leo Jeoh, and our esteemed members and participants for actively participating in this exchange. We also thank SELATI for their generous sponsorship of the event. We look forward to facilitating similar fruitful engagements with visiting trade delegations in the future.

     

  • AAIS Launches Singapore UAS Directory 2024/25

    AAIS has launched the fourth edition of the Singapore UAS Directory, with the support of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), Enterprise Singapore (ESG) and the Maritime Port Authority (MPA). We are very pleased to welcome MPA on board for the first time, as the maritime use case for UA is potentially very significant, given Singapore’s leading port status.

    Since the 2022/23 edition of the Directory, the breadth and sophistication of the industry has evolved. To better reflect this in the 2024/25 Directory, we have expanded the classifications from five to 11. New classifications include eVTOL Manufacturers, Counter UAS, Education, Training & Research Institutions, Software and Data Management, Standards, Certification and Consultancy, and Legal, Financing and Other Services. With an increase in the number of businesses listed,  the Directory has also expanded from 56 pages to 88 pages. We trust that this expanded edition will provide better utility to end users in their search for products and services. As we have in the past, the listings from the Directory are also found in our online Asia Pacific Aviation Directory (www.aviationdirectory.biz).

    In his Message for the Directory, Mr Soh Leng Wan, Assistant Managing Director (Manufacturing) of Enterprise Singapore wrote, “Singapore hosts a vibrant community of UAS enterprises, who are developing cutting-edge industrial drone solutions and complementary accessories. From infrastructure inspection to
    agricultural crop monitoring and counting, these custom-built drones are deployed for a wide range of tasks to increase work efficiency, improve workplace safety, and reduce costs. The local UAS industry is also a hub for diverse employment opportunities, contributing to more PMET roles, including mechanical and robotics engineers, software developers, data analysts, drone pilots, among others. This provides exciting career paths for those keen on venturing into emerging technology fields.”

    On his part, Mr Tan Chun Wei, Director (Unmanned Systems, Technology, Engineering and Planning) at the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore noted that, “Singapore’s smart city ambition makes our city-state a fertile ground for innovative UAS use cases. However, our small land size, high-density urban environment and airspace constraints pose unique challenges. These challenges will only grow as the scale and complexity of UAS operations increase. To enable the safe adoption of transformative unmanned systems technologies, CAAS has embarked on key initiatives recently such as the development of a UAS Traffic Management
    (UTM) system, plans to launch more Unmanned Aircraft Flying Areas (UAFAs) to inculcate safe UA flying culture and convening the Meeting of Asia-Pacific Regulators on AAM and UAS to strengthen regulatory capabilities.”

    In his observations, Mr David Foo, Assistant Chief Executive (Operations) and Assistant Chief Executive (Operations Technology)/ Chief Data Officer said, “The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) industry presents significant opportunities for Maritime Singapore to improve the operational efficiency of port services, enhance safety to personnel conducting emergency response activities and reduce carbon footprint. As a busy port with limited sea space, Unmanned or Drone solutions naturally fit into the maritime industry. Today, there are commercial flights for shore-ship, ship-shore deliveries, and inspection services. Given the keen interest to scale maritime drone activities, MPA is exploring comprehensive approaches to ensure the safe integration and operation of drones alongside vessels in our port waters.”

     

     

     

  • RSAF Occupational Safety and Health Working Group Visits SIAEC Safety Promotion Centres

    On 18 July 2024, AAIS facilitated a visit to SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC) Safety Promotion Centres for attendees from RSAF Occupational Safety and Health Working Group.

    The working group, led by Col Nick Wong and Col (Dr) Brian See, saw attending officers from various units, including AFI, CAMO, AFMS, AELD, APGC, PC, ADOC, UC, ACC and AFTC.

    Upon the group’s arrival, our host SIAEC gave a warm welcome to our participants. Throughout the guided tours, the participants engaged actively with questions, and our hosts addressed a range of topics regarding safety standards, regulations, and other relevant subjects.

    AAIS is pleased to participate in this facilitation, which originated from the initial Learning Journey organised for our RSAF Members in September 2023. On behalf of AAIS and our participants, we extend our thanks to our SIAEC host.

    AAIS facilitates RSAF visit to SIAEC Safety Centres

    A token of appreciation from Col Nick Wong, Head Air Force Inspectorate to AAIS President Wong Yue Jeen (also CCO SIAEC).

    “Mandatory” group photo at the end of the visit

  • Briefing on the Singapore Sustainable Air Hub Blueprint

    On 17 July 2024, AAIS hosted an informative briefing on the Singapore Sustainable Air Hub Blueprint for its members. The event featured Mr Daniel Ng, Chief Sustainability Officer and Senior Director (Aviation Development Group) at the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), as the key speaker.

    Overview of the Sustainable Air Hub Blueprint

    Launched in February 2024, the Singapore Sustainable Air Hub Blueprint presents a comprehensive strategy to support the sustainable growth of Singapore’s aviation sector. Spearheaded by CAAS, the blueprint was submitted to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as Singapore’s State Action Plan, underscoring the nation’s commitment to balancing environmental responsibility with the continued growth of its aviation industry.

    The blueprint sets out targets for reducing carbon emissions, aiming for a 20% reduction in domestic aviation emissions by 2030 compared to 2019 levels, even with anticipated passenger traffic growth. Given the lack of domestic flight activities in Singapore, this target primarily pertains to airport operations. For international aviation, the goal is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in alignment with ICAO’s vision. This effort will involve major Singapore-based carriers – Singapore Airlines (SIA), Jetstar Asia, and Scoot.

    To achieve these goals, CAAS will implement 12 initiatives across three domains: airport, airline, and air traffic management (ATM). These initiatives aim to reduce carbon emissions through:

    • Absolute reduction of energy use
    • Shift to cleaner energy sources, such as alternative fuels and low-carbon electricity imports
    • Promotion of circularity practices
    • Utilisation of technology to enhance operational efficiency

    Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at the Forefront

    SAF has emerged as a key driver of aviation decarbonisation worldwide, and Singapore is at the forefront of initiatives to encourage its adoption in the region. Mr Ng discussed successful pilot tests for SAF use and operational readiness at Changi, achieved in collaboration with Singapore Airlines, Changi Airport Group, GenZero, Neste and ExxonMobil.

    A significant announcement made in conjunction with the launch of the blueprint was the mandatory adoption of SAF for flights departing from Singapore starting in 2026, with an initial 1% SAF uplift target. To support SAF adoption, CAAS will introduce a SAF levy for passengers. The levy will vary based on travel distance and class, with proceeds financing the aggregated central procurement of SAF by CAAS.

    Mr Ng explained that a fixed cost envelope method was selected to offer cost predictability for airlines and passengers as the SAF supply market is still emerging and SAF prices could fluctuate. The levy amount will be predetermined based on the SAF target and the estimated SAF price at that time. The uplift target is expected to rise to 3 to 5% by 2030, depending on global developments and the availability of SAF.

    Airport and ATM Domain Initiatives

    The blueprint also outlines initiatives to reduce carbon emissions at Singapore’s Changi and Seletar airports, including transitioning airside vehicles to cleaner fuels, increasing the deployment of solar power,  and conducting a feasibility study for installing solar panels on the airfields.

    Under the ATM domain, CAAS will undertake initiatives such as demand-capacity balancing, performance-based navigation enhancements, and gate-to-gate trajectory optimisation to boost efficiency and reduce fuel burn.

    Critical Enablers for Success

    At the briefing, Mr Ng also emphasised the importance of critical enablers for the blueprint’s implementation, including infrastructure planning and development, workforce transformation and skills development, and international partnerships and collaborations. Mr Ng also shared CAAS’ plans for establishing an Asia-Pacific Sustainable Aviation Centre, which will focus on research and development of sustainable aviation policies tailored to the region and exploring regional feedstock options for SAF production.

    Members present had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session, where there was particular interest in SAF supply, feedstock quality and availability. Mr Ng acknowledged the role of policy-makers in encouraging the production of SAF. He also addressed the challenges of promoting SAF adoption, highlighting the lack of commercial demand due to a limited understanding of the product and higher costs associated with SAF use.

    Driving Sustainability in the Singapore Aerospace Industry

    AAIS remains committed to supporting industry efforts in sustainability. At the briefing, AAIS Chief Executive highlighted the Association’s ongoing initiatives, following through from the AAIS Sustainability Roadmap rolled out in 2022. He highlighted positive developments from the Singapore aerospace industry, citing a 214% growth in solar power adoption between 2020 and 2023, as outlined in the Singapore Aerospace Industry Solar Adoption Report 2023.

    To further drive sustainability, AAIS actively facilitated the development of a sustainability framework for industrial parks, which will see Seletar Aerospace Park serving as a pilot site. Members were encouraged to participate in these activities as well as explore opportunities to support the goals of the Singapore Sustainable Air Hub Blueprint.

     

     

  • AAIS PEP Members Visit Thailand – Exploring Opportunities and Building Partnerships

    A delegation comprising of the inaugural participants of AAIS’ Promising Entrepreneurs Programme (PEP) embarked on a study mission to Thailand from 30th June to 4th July 2024. This study mission to Thailand was developed by AAIS with the aim to foster collaboration, exchange knowledge, and identify potential business opportunities between Singaporean companies and Thai enterprises.

    Before the official programme commenced, our participants arrived in Thailand on 30th June and enjoyed the evening together over a welcome dinner, held at a local Thai restaurant. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation as everyone exchanged pleasantries and shared stories of their journeys. As the aroma of traditional Thai cuisine filled the room, the clinking of glasses and the sounds of laughter created a warm and inviting atmosphere, setting the perfect tone for the days ahead.

     

    The study mission began with a series of meetings with representatives from the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), Mahanakorn Partners Group, and Siam Aero Repair. During the session, our attendees gained valuable insights on the aviation landscape in Thailand, the legal framework for doing business in Thailand, and potential avenues for strategic partnerships, marking a great start to the trip.

    The next day, our attendees had a fruitful day that kicked off with a briefing and roundtable discussion in the morning, organised together with the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (AmCham Thailand). The session featured speakers and representatives from Invision Capital, Qarbon Aerospace, Tractus, and Honeywell Systems (Thailand), which sparked exciting and meaningful conversations between the Singaporean companies and the Thai representatives.

    Following the morning session, our participants enjoyed a delightful Japanese-Thai lunch at Hotel Nikko Amata City, before the delegation made their way to visit the factories located in Chon Buri. In the evening, our delegation attended the Aviation Roundtable Networking event hosted by the AmCham Thailand, where they connected with various aerospace professionals in Thailand. Participants also took this opportunity to strengthen their professional networks and discuss potential collaborations. As the night progressed, the atmosphere in the room remained lively, brimming with stimulating discussions and potential partnerships.

    One of the highlights for participants during the trip was the facility visits in Thailand’s Chon Buri estate, located in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). In Chon Buri, the delegation toured several aerospace MRO facilities over the course of two days, including AAR Component Services (Thailand), TurbineAero, SAM Precision (Thailand) and Revima Asia Pacific.

    Through the guided tours, participants visited the different MRO aerospace facilities and gained valuable insights into their operations. The PEP members were introduced to the structured workflow within the factory layouts and were exposed to a range of aircraft MRO procedures, ranging from engine to auxiliary power units (APU), landing gears, radome, and even aircraft tires. The customized tours around the factories allowed participants to develop a better understanding of the intricate aspects involved in maintenance, repair, and overhaul.

    The study mission concluded with a dinner that gathered the PEP members and our AMCHAM hosts, Mr. Barry Crawford, and Mr. Frank Timmons. Over dinner, the delegation thanked their hosts with tokens of appreciation for the kind hospitality and the enriching experiences that they had gained throughout their stay.

    The mission to Thailand was AAIS’ first step into engaging with the Thailand market. It not only opened doors to new business opportunities but also strengthened the bonds of friendship and cooperation between AAIS, our PEP members, and the Thai business community. As we move forward, the insights gained and relationships formed during this study mission will undoubtedly contribute to our shared goals of growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

    From AAIS, a big thank you to all our Thailand hosts for your kind hospitality and support for the study mission.

  • New Unmanned Aircraft Flying Area at Dover

    Minister for Transport Mr Chee Hong Tat opens the newest UAFA at Dover

    DG CAAS and members of the community join Minister for the opening

    CAAS has established the second Unmanned Aircraft Flying Area (UAFA) for the public at a 0.6 ha site off Dover Road, offering a flying area over land and greenery. The UAFA was opened by Minister for Transport Mr Chee Hong Tat on 6 July 2024 and complements the inaugural UAFA at Pandan Reservoir launched in July 2022.

    The establishment of UAFAs was a key recommendation of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Advisory Panel which AAIS was delighted to participate in. The Panel was set up in 2019 to help CAAS review and recommend enhancements to Singapore’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems regulatory framework. We are delighted that our contribution to the work of the Panel keeps on delivering results.

     

  • Learning Visit to Changi Airport Group

    AAIS organised an exclusive visit for its RSAF members to Changi Airport Group (CAG) on 21 June 2024. Hosted by Mr Seoh Zhi Wen, Vice President of Innovation and Process Enhancement at CAG, the visit offered a glimpse into the innovation journey and use of cutting-edge technology at CAG’s Engineering & Development Cluster.

    Zhi Wen and his team provided a comprehensive overview of their digitalisation and automation efforts in asset maintenance and management. The session touched on the application of digital twin technology, point cloud data, sensorisation, augmented and virtual reality, among others. Members learned how Digital Twins, virtual replicas of physical assets, have proven invaluable by enabling remote access, scenario simulation, and streamlining operations at the airport. Other innovations at CAG were also discussed, including the Fault Management System and AIMS (Asset Inspection and Management System) – in-house developed applications that have enhanced their approach to fault detection and resolution.

    A guided tour of the Fault Management Centre provided members with a firsthand view of these systems in action. The CAG team explained their daily monitoring and management processes, offering valuable insights into the practical applications, limitations, and challenges associated with these technologies. They also emphasised the importance of continuous improvement and innovation culture at CAG.

    Interactive Q&A sessions with RSAF members fostered lively discussions, with the exchanges sparking new ideas for potential innovations within their respective fields. We thank CAG, Zhi Wen and his team for hosting this informative session.

     

    AAIS-RSAF members visit Changi Airport Group

  • Study visit from CUOA Business School, Italy

    AAIS hosted a study visit by the MBA International programme from Italy’s CUOA Business School on 6 June 2024. It was a pleasure to welcome Prof Andrea Vinelli and his students to Seletar Aerospace Park and to brief them on the latest developments in aviation and aerospace in Singapore. A key point made was on the importance of ‘Connectivity’ as the economic lifeblood of Singapore, and hence the strategic value of the Air Hub, and the air transport and aerospace industry. Singapore is making long term investments in its airport infrastructure (e.g. Changi T5), and making preparations for its 2050 net zero goals, and Advanced Air Mobility capabilities. The aerospace industry is also in a growth cycle post-pandemic with both a strong inward flow of investments strengthening the Singapore hub and private sector investments expanding the economic space globally.

     

     

     

  • Quebec Government Distinguished Int’l Visitor Program

    DIVP Participants with Assistant Deputy Minister, Europe, Indo-Pacific and Institutional Affairs, Ministère des Relations internationales et de la Francophonie (MRIF)

    AAIS was honoured to be invited by the Government of Quebec to join the Distinguished International Visitor Program (DIVP) from 20 to 24 May 2024, alongside other participants from Asia. The Program was timed to coincide with the International Aerospace Innovation Forum, held in Montreal, Canada.

    Quebec’s aerospace industry (CAN$20.9 billion sales) accounts for 60% of Canada’s industry output and is anchored by 5 big-name prime contractors: Airbus, Bell Textron Canada, Bombardier, CAE and Pratt & Whitney. Collectively, these OEMs anchor 70% of sales. The next tier of manufacturers, integrators and MROs account for the next 16% of sales.

    Wings of Unity panel at International Aerospace Innovation Forum

    On Day 1 of the Forum, Quebec’s Premier announced the establishment of Espace Aero innovation zone. This initiative aims to stimulate collaborative innovation to ensure Quebec’s place as a world leader in aerospace. Focus areas will include,
    • Decarbonization through the configuration of vehicles that are both more efficient and aerodynamic, lighter and greener structures as well as less polluting, more electric systems.
    • Aircraft autonomy and safety through intelligent technologies and systems, communications, remote control and cybersecurity.

    Boeing also announced a CAN$240 million investment in the Espace Aero innovation zone comprising an aerospace development centre and development work on Wisk and advanced landing gear development. Buoyed by the Espace Aero plan, the aerospace sector in Quebec is expecting strong growth in the coming years. This potentially presents opportunities too for Singapore to collaborate with Canadian industry on innovation, supply chain and talent. AAIS welcomes inquiries from members seeking to build connections with industry in Quebec.

    Besides attending the Forum and participating as a speaker in the Wings of Unity panel at the Forum, AAIS Chief Executive was briefed by Investissement Quebec, Aero Montreal, Consortium de recherche et d’innovation en aérospatiale au Québec (CRIAQ), and had discussions with Bombardier, Heroux Devtek, Genetec and other players in the industry. It was also an opportunity to call on the International Coordinating Council of Aerospace Industries Associations (ICCAIA), of which AAIS is an Associate Member, to discuss cooperation on strengthening the work of ICCAIA in Asia Pacific. We were also pleased to connect with fellow members of the Global Aerospace Cluster Partnership (GACP), from China, Montreal and Toulouse. We also made new contacts with other DIVP participants from Clark International Airport, Malaysia’s National Aerospace Industry Corporation, and TOHMEI Industries of Japan.

    Apart from learning about the Aerospace cluster in Quebec, participation in the DIVP also provided the opportunity to strengthen our ties with partners and to identify opportunities for Singapore industry to collaborate. The Forum offered inspiration into how Singapore’s aerospace cluster could further develop as an innovation-driven industry, addressing future challenges such as sustainability.

     

  • AAIS HOST Networking Evening 2Q2024

    AAIS successfully hosted its second networking session of the year on the evening of May 21st, at the Paradox Hotel. The event drew a strong turnout, with over 60 attendees representing diverse organisations from across the aerospace industry. There was a distinctive presence of new faces underscoring the continued growth and dynamism of the sector and the association.

    Mr Desmond Goh, AAIS Honorary Treasurer, warmly welcomed guests on behalf of the management committee and secretariat. Communications Manager Ann Majid followed with a presentation highlighting to keep members informed of recent and upcoming activities and opportunities.

    The vibrant atmosphere throughout the evening provided fertile ground for lively conversations and valuable networking opportunities. The evening concluded with a fun and engaging Lucky Draw, where five lucky attendees walked away with attractive prizes such as hotel stays and buffet vouchers.

       

    We extend our sincere gratitude to our gracious and generous venue partner, Paradox Singapore Merchant Court, for providing a beautiful and inviting setting, along with delectable food at the Crossroads Bar. We also express our appreciation to our event sponsor, Workforce Singapore, for their continued support.

    The quarterly AAIS Networking sessions serve as a catalyst for stronger relationships within the aerospace community. We look forward to hosting similar events in the future and providing platforms for industry professionals to connect in a convivial atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the soon-to-be-released event calendar for the second half of the year, packed with ways to get involved!

     

     

  • AAIS New Members’ Night 2024

    The AAIS Annual New Members’ Night was held on 16 May 2024 at the Singapore Island Country Club. The evening served as a warm welcome to our newest corporate members who joined AAIS during the past year.

    The evening buzzed with excitement as participants eagerly connected with fellow members in vibrant interactions from the get-go. The programme officially kicked off with introductions of the AAIS Management Committee and our new members. AAIS President Mr Wong Yue Jeen extended a heartfelt welcome to all the new members, sharing insights into the work of the Association and highlighting key areas of focus such as supply chain resilience, quality and safety, talent pipeline development, and the continued promotion of transformation and innovation within the industry. Engaging conversations flowed freely throughout the evening, with many attendees lingering well past dessert to continue networking and building connections.

    We extend a warm welcome to our new members which each add a vibrant thread to the rich tapestry of our aerospace community. To contribute to these vital industry initiatives and benefit from the extensive knowledge and networks of the industry, join us as a member. Find out more and apply at https://aais.org.sg/membership-information/  

  • AAIS Bowling Tournament 2024

    The AAIS annual Bowling Tournament returned with a bang on 11 May 2024, held at Orchid Bowl within the Orchid Country Club. The event brought together 32 teams from across the aerospace industries, all vying for friendly bragging rights and a chance at the championship title.

    The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as teammates cheered each other on, erupting in celebrations for every strike and spare. A genuine sense of camaraderie was evident highlighting the strong sense of community within the industry. The tournament also featured exciting novelty games like “4 Bagger,” “7-10 splits,” and “5 Stand-alone,” injecting an extra layer of fun and friendly competition into the event. These challenges kept participants on their toes and added a touch of lightheartedness to the competition.

     

    A hearty congratulations to our champions from Singapore Aero Engine Services Private Limited (SAESL), who retained their title for the second year running! The team SIA Engineering Company secured the first runner-up position, while keglers from Bestlabs Singapore Pte. Ltd. bagged the second runner-up spot. Individual achievements were also recognised, with Tan Chee Guan from SIAEC and Nurul Aisyah Atriyanie from GE Aerospace achieving the highest scores in their respective categories.

    Team Prizes Company/ Team Name Score
    Team Champion Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd/ SAESL A 2044
    1st Runner-up SIA Engineering Company Ltd/ Team SIAEC 2000
    2nd Runner-up Bestlabs Singapore Pte Ltd/ BLS Team 1 1926
    Individual Prizes Name/ Company Score
    Best Male Overall Mr Tan Chee Guan/ SIA Engineering Company Ltd 634
    Best Female Overall Ms Nurul Aisyah Atriyanie Bte Noor Azman/ GE Aerospace 509

    AAIS BOWLING TOURNAMENT 2024 – Full Team Results 
    AAIS BOWLING TOURNAMENT 2024 – Individual Results

    The AAIS Bowling Tournament was once again a resounding success, solidifying its place as a much-loved industry tradition. We thank the aerospace community for their enthusiastic participation in this fantastic corporate team-building event! A special thank you also goes to our Management Committee member Matthieu Pere, CEO of Safran Electronics & Defense Services Asia Pte Ltd, for presenting the awards to our well-deserved winners. We look forward to seeing everyone again for another thrilling bowling competition next year! In the meantime, look forward to more sporting tournaments including Futsal and Golf in the second half of the year!

    Check out and download photos from the event here!

    https://www.aerophotoworks.com/p40316762
    Password: aa15bwl24
    Credits: Aerophotoworks for AAIS

     

     

  • Start of classes for M03 Electrical Fundamentals and M06 Materials and Hardware

    We are pleased to report that M03 Electrical Fundamentals and M06 Materials and Hardware preparatory classes have kicked off on 6 April and 4 May 2024 respectively. We wish all participants well on their professional development pathway!

  • Mediation in Aviation: A Win-Win Approach

    Together with the Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC) and the Hague Court of Arbitration for Aviation (HCAA), AAIS was pleased to co-organise a seminar on Mediation in Aviation: A Win-Win Approach to Dispute Resolution held on 17 April at the offices of Rajah & Tann Singapore. The seminar was held specially for AAIS and industry members following the MOU signing between HCAA and SIMC in February, on Asia’s first specialised mediation framework for the aviation industry.

    In the first part of the programme, Antony Lee, Director of Strategic Engagement at SIMC provided an overview of the benefits of mediation, including the differences between litigation, arbitration and mediation. Mediation was highlighted as a cost-effective and efficient dispute resolution tool that focuses on the interest of the parties involved. 90% of mediations administered by SIMC take only one day, with a settlement rate of over 70%. Lee also took participants through a typical mediation process, factors affecting the costs of mediation, as well as the roles played by the skilled mediator.

       

    In the second part of the programme, Paul Ng, Partner at Rajah & Tann and co-head of the Mediation Standing Committee at HCAA delved into the intricacies of mediation in aviation disputes. He spotlighted the complexities of cross-border aviation disputes, particularly jurisdictional conflicts and enforcement challenges. The session culminated in an engaging panel discussion featuring Lee, Ng, and Mary Walker, an esteemed international mediator and barrister from Australia. The panellists and participants shared their experiences with mediation and discussed the approaches, rules of engagement, and mitigating potential challenges of mediation.

       

    The session was insightful and provided a refreshing perspective on resolving commercial disputes, which is relevant and important in the highly interconnected aviation and aerospace industries. We thank our esteemed partners and speakers from HCAA and SIMC for generously sharing their time and expertise. We also thank all attendees for their active participation and record our gratitude to Rajah & Tann for hosting the event.

     

  • Budget 2024: Implications for Business

     

    Budget 2024 addressed key long-term issues facing Singapore, including climate change, competition for talent and foreign investments, and social inequality. We are appreciative of Mr Teh Swee Thiam (Partner, Global Compliance & Reporting) and Ms Tracy Tham (Associate Partner, Business Incentives Advisory) of Ernst & Young for sharing the implications that Budget 2024 will have for Aviation and Aerospace businesses.

    Discussions covered the following topics:

    1. Tackling immediate challenges for businesses

    • Enhancement to the Enterprise Financing Scheme
    • Extension of SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC)
    • Other Tax measures and rebates

    2. Bolstering business competitiveness and Pursuing better growth and jobs

    • Enhancements to The Partnerships for Capability Transformation (PACT) Scheme
    • Introduction of Refundable Investment Credit Scheme
    • Introduction of additional concessionary tax rate tiers

    3. Securing climate resilience

    • Enhancements to Energy Efficiency Grant
  • RSAF Members Visit Bell Textron Asia

    RSAF members were treated with a good start to the year’s learning journeys, with Mr Mark Loh, General Manager of Bell Textron Asia hosting us on 21 March 2024 at the Seletar Aerospace Park maintenance facilities. Following a briefing on Bell’s aircraft line-up and global footprint, members were treated to a guided walk-though of both the helicopter and business jet hangars. This included a close look at the comprehensive suite of capabilities available, from structures, component and avionics/electrical workshops, paintshop to warehouse. There was much to see and learn, even for the seasoned engineers among the visitors. Not least was hearing from Mark about his inspirational career transition from AFE to the commercial world, and eventually, to leadership of a regional organisation in a major commercial aerospace organisation.

  • MOU Signing with KOSME, S. Korea

    AAIS and the Korean SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 20 Mar 2024 to facilitate business cooperation between AAIS members and promising Korean startups. The MOU was inked by Mr Kang Seog Jin, President, KOSME and Mr Wong Yue Jeen, President, AAIS.

    In his opening remarks, Mr Wong noted that the aviation and aerospace industries placed great store on leveraging technology, fostering innovation, and attracting talents as ways to develop a more resilient and sustainable aerospace ecosystem. Mr Kang likewise expressed hope that the MOU would lead to greater cooperation between Korean SMEs and Startups and Singapore industry, adding to the ongoing efforts of K-Startup Center Singapore.

    Following the discussion and MOU signing, Mr Kang signed the guest book and together with Korean delegates, was briefed on developments at Seletar Aerospace Park.

     

     

  • Drones and Uncrewed Asia 2024

    The Singapore UAS Community by AAIS had a good two days (6-7 Mar 2024) at Drones & Uncrewed Asia, supporting our members and engaging with regulators and industry. We also kick-started our preparation for the 2024/2025 edition of the Singapore UAS Directory.

    Compared to last year, the drones component of the show has grown. We were particularly encouraged by the growing participation of our members: Viasat, Avetics Global, Heron AirBridge, SwissDrones, Temasek Polytechnic, Thales and YJP Surveyors.


    There was a lot going on with the drones theme now sharing the main stage, in addition to the parallel sessions at the UAV Innovation Theatre. A keynote and two panel discussions were featured:

    1. Harmonising operational procedures: converging paths towards standardisation

    Moderator: Mr Sia Kheng Yok, Chief Executive, Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore)

    Speakers:

    1. CPT Illyaquila Fateen Ismail, Assistant Director, Flight Operations Division, Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia
    2. Mr Mudzkkir Hatta, CEO, Malaysia, Aerodyne
    3. Ms Kristen Mineck, Manager, Aviation Requirements and Standards, Viasat
    4. Ms Teo Shiqi, Head, Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Unmanned Systems Policy and Regulations Division, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore

    2. Going global: How the Asia Pacific region is leading the way in autonomous aviation

    Moderator: Mark ter Hove, Senior Manager, AAM/UAM, Viasat

    Speakers:

    1. Mr Ryan Lee, CEO, Heron AirBridge
    2. Mr Sanjay Suresh, GM, Drone Services APAC, Skyports
    3. Ms Lee Siu Min, Regional Director, Business Development APAC, Viasat

     


    The now customary Singapore UAS Community drinks reception was held on Day 1 and co-hosted by Viasat. As always, we had good conversations in a conducive setting, with industry leaders. Thank you to all who joined us. Our appreciation goes especially to sponsor, Viasat.

  • Singapore Pavilion Shines at Singapore Airshow 2024

    The Singapore Pavilion at the Singapore Airshow 2024 was a hive of activities, marking another successful showcase coordinated by AAIS. From 20 to 25 February 2024, the biennial Singapore Airshow was back in full swing, bringing together industry leaders and professionals from the aviation, aerospace and defence industries.

    Groundwork for the Singapore Pavilion commenced well in advance, with planning and coordination in the months prior, through the Christmas and holiday season. AAIS held an exhibitor briefing in early January, setting the stage for participants. Additionally, a preparatory seminar titled “Unlock Procurement Wins” was held on 25 January, featuring speakers from Arc Blue and Shipley, covering changes in aerospace procurement and strategies for business success.

    Diverse Capabilities & Next-Generation Solutions

    The Singapore Pavilion featured a diverse range of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with 27 exhibitors, more than twice the number compared to its previous iteration. Notably, over half of these exhibitors were making their debut appearance at Singapore Airshow 2024, highlighting innovations in areas such as advanced manufacturing, Artificial Intelligence, and sustainable solutions. An array of capabilities and solutions for aerospace manufacturing, MRO value-chain services, airport and ground support, defence, engineering and development, logistics, parts, tools, materials and others were on display. In particular, the Pavilion showcased the ecosystem’s strengths in:

    1. Special Processes and Surface Finishing: Featuring companies certified to provide vital surface treatment processes for OEM and MRO parts, completing the aerospace supply chain.
    2. Innovation and Technology: Exhibitors showcased cutting-edge technologies, including Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS), Robotics, Automation, and AI, driving advancements in emerging industries.
    3. Green Solutions: Singapore SMEs highlighted sustainability, presenting Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and sustainable procurement materials, contributing to net zero ambitions.

     

    VIP Visitor Highlights:

    Throughout the Trade Days, the Singapore Pavilion attracted significant foot traffic, including VIPs and foreign delegations. Notable visitors included:

    • Senior Minister of State Ministry of Defence & Ministry of Manpower, Mr Zaqy Mohamad;
    • Permanent Secretary (Development), Ministry of Trade and Industry, Dr Beh Swan Gin
    • Chairman of the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Mr Png Cheong Boon;
    • Enterprise Singapore Assistant Chief Executive Officer, Mr Soh Leng Wan; and
    • Foreign delegations comprising senior defence decision-makers.

     

    On Public Day, the Pavilion continued to garner attention, with Singapore Pavilion exhibitors receiving visits from Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Mr Heng Swee Keat; and Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mr Alvin Tan.

    View more pictures of the Singapore Pavilion at this Aerophotoworks Photo Gallery.

    Media Attention and Publicity:

    In the lead-up to and during the week-long trade event, the Singapore Pavilion and its exhibitors received attention from the media, garnering coverage from mainstream, business, industry, and social media outlets. Here are some notable mentions:

    • Aviation International Online:  “Singapore Set to Shine at This Year’s Airshow” Read more
    • MONEYFM (Live) – Mind Your Business: Hosted a segment titled “What’s in the skies? Unveiling the secrets of Singapore’s aerospace growth” Listen
    • Power98FM/Camokakis – In the News: “Singapore Aerospace & Airshow 2024”  Listen
    • ChannelNewsAsia: “Singapore grooms talent, looks to scale up infrastructure to meet demand from aerospace industry” Read more
    • Minister of State Alvin Tan on LinkedIn. View post
    • Enterprise Singapore on LinkedIn. View post

     

    List of Singapore Pavilion Exhibitors

    To find out more about the exhibitors or to contact them, download the Singapore Pavilion Guide here: SG Airshow Exhibitors Guide


     

     

  • China-Singapore Bilateral Aviation Forum

    AAIS is delighted to have successfully held our first jointly organised event with the Chinese Society of Aeronautics and Astronautics (CSAA). The China-Singapore Bilateral Aviation Forum held on 22 February at Singapore Airshow 2024, brought together business leaders, officials and academics from China and Singapore to exchange ideas on the development of the aviation and aerospace industry in the region.

    Amidst the anticipated robust growth in the Asia-Pacific fleet and passenger traffic in the coming decades, the Forum facilitated extensive discussions on enhancing supply chains, exploring the next generation of air travel, and furthering global and industry sustainability goals. Emerging technologies and innovations such as digitalisation, generative AI, electrification, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel were among the hot topics of discussion.

    Addressing partners and attendees at the top of the event, AAIS President Mr Wong Yue Jeen iterated the shifting nexus of commercial aviation towards China and the Asia Pacific region in the next decades. Fueled by strong demand for air travel, investments in infrastructure to expand capacity, and rising domestic demand in China and low-cost carriers in Southeast Asia, the region is poised not only to lead but fundamentally reshape the aerospace ecosystem. Mr. Wong highlighted the tremendous potential for cooperation between China and Singapore, particularly with the advent of new frontiers in travel such as air taxis, drones, and space.

    In his opening remarks, Mr Yao Junchen, CSAA Vice Chairman and Secretary-General emphasised the significance of China’s debut at the Singapore Airshow, recognising it as a valuable opportunity for fostering business connections and exchanging technological insights. He also highlighted the recent establishment of the International Green Aviation Association (IAGA), comprising over 50 organisations and individuals worldwide and dedicated to advancing sustainability in aviation through technological advancements and global cooperation.

    The Forum featured presentations covering an array of topics, including the aviation market, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), digital Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), the future of airports, and industry trends. The lineup of speakers represented a diverse cross-section of the industry from both China and Singapore, showcasing expertise and insights from various perspectives.

    Presenting Speakers:

    • Mr David So, Senior Vice President Corporate Planning & Continuous Improvement, SIA Engineering Company
    • Ms Mabel Kwan, Managing Director, Alton Aviation Consultancy
    • Mr Xiao Erbin, Senior Commercial Director, EHang
    • Ms Ding Ling, Deputy Mayor, Langfang Municipal People’s Government and Director, Beijing Daxing International Airport Airport Economic Zone (Langfang) Management Committee
    • Ms Qian Lili, Deputy Director, Investment Promotion Bureau of Taicang City, Jiangsu Province

    Two panel discussions, featuring industry experts, delved into reshaping business strategies for sustainable growth in MRO and manufacturing. The discussions underscored the importance of building supply chain resilience, fostering collaborative partnerships, embracing data-driven customer-centric approaches, and prioritizing capability development. Speakers unanimously agreed that these factors were essential for positioning businesses to overcome challenges, enhance efficiency, and adapt to evolving market demands. There was also a strong consensus that international cooperation between the private sector, government, and research institutions was crucial for optimizing the entire aviation industry on a global scale. Speakers emphasised the need for coordinated and collaborative efforts to drive innovation and progress.

    Panel 1: Technological Innovation and International Cooperation in Aviation
    Moderator: Dr Kenneth Low, Associate Professor and Engineering Group Leader, Singapore Institute of Technology
    Panelists:

    • Mr Fu Jian, Associate Professor, Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics
    • Mr Henry Hooi, Founder, Volar Ltd. and  Founding Member of IAGA
    • Mr David Schulte, Managing Director Marketing, India, South East Asia, and Asia Pacific, Boeing
    • Mr Guo Qing, Vice President, Embraer China

    Panel 2: Overview of Aviation MRO and Manufacturing Development
    Moderator: Mr Rahul Shah, Senior Vice President, Strategic Growth and Business Development – Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, AAR International
    Panelists:

    • Mr Desmond Goh, Managing Director, Eaton Industries
    • Mr Philip Sung, Director of Sales, Global Aftermarket & Asia OEM and General Manager, Auxitrol Weston Singapore
    • Mr Patrick (Peng) Wang, President, Shanghai Handao Technologies Company

    Overall, the Forum highlighted the importance of international cooperation in driving progress and innovation within the aviation and aerospace industry. It also provided a valuable platform for networking and relationship-building among speakers, participants, and the organisers, facilitating connections that could lead to tangible opportunities for collaboration, growth and development. AAIS extends our gratitude to our partners CSAA and Experia, for their invaluable support and contribution to this successful event.

     

  • AAIS International Networking Lunch & Spotlight Sessions

    The Singapore Pavilion continued to buzz with activities on Day 2, kicking off with the AAIS International Networking Lunch.

    Held on the astroturf of the Seletar-themed JTC booth, the luncheon saw exciting announcements, new connections and exchanges between attendees comprising AAIS members and partners, Singapore Pavilion exhibitors, as well as visiting delegations from Australia, Canada, France, Japan, and the USA.

    Launch of Aerospace Open Innovation Challenge

    A highlight of the event was the launch of the Aerospace Open Innovation Challenge (AOIC) which aims to foster collaboration and innovation between industry players and promising startups and SMEs within the aerospace industry. The AOIC is an initiative by JTC Corporation and Enterprise Singapore with support from AAIS and EDB and the first aerospace-focused innovation challenge in Singapore of such scale. Seven global aerospace companies  – Airbus, Bell Textron, Collins Aerospace, GE Aerospace, Jet Aviation, Singapore Component Solutions, and ST Engineering Commercial Aerospace – have issued 12 challenge statements in the areas of sustainability, productivity, and digitalisation. Startups and SMEs are invited to trial and scale their solutions, with more than S$500,000 in grants available to support the co-development and piloting of solutions. Corporates will also lend expertise and resources to nurture promising SMEs and startups in the aerospace field.

    Find out more about the AOIC here: https://aerospace.innovation-challenge.sg/en/challenges/aerospace-open-innovation-challenge-2024 

    HCAA-SIMC MOU on Specialised Mediation Framework for Aviation

    A second highlight of the lunch programme was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between two alternative dispute resolution institutions seated in Europe and Asia. A collaboration between the Hague Court of Arbitration for Aviation (HCAA) and the Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC) marks Asia’s first specialised mediation framework for the aviation industry. It promises a fast, flexible, and cost-effective mode of dispute resolution, crucial for the fast-paced and mission-critical aviation sector. Through the MOU, Hague CAA and SIMC will promote the incorporation of suitable model dispute resolution clauses in Asia’s aviation industry and collaborate on joint events and training opportunities.

    Following these announcements, attendees engaged in valuable networking opportunities over a delectable lunch spread. Amidst the lively conversations, guests also took some time to explore the diverse offerings showcased at the Singapore Pavilion.

     

    Spotlight Sessions @ Singapore Pavilion

    In the afternoon, AAIS organised Spotlight Sessions as a platform for members and partners to share new initiatives, pertinent topics and solutions with the industry. The Spotlight Sessions featured topics covering sustainable solutions and the application of cutting-edge technologies.
      
  • Singapore Aerospace Technology Leadership Forum 2024

    The Singapore Aerospace Technology Leadership Forum (SATLF) 2024 was convened on 19 February 2024, bringing together thought leaders and industry experts from leading global aerospace companies. Co-organised by A*STAR (the Agency for Science, Technology and Research) and the Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) (AAIS), and supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board, this premier forum explored critical themes shaping the future of aerospace.

    The event was graced by Singapore’s Minister of State for Trade and Industry, Ms Low Yen Ling. In her opening address, Ms Low emphasised the significance of the aerospace sector in Singapore’s economy, highlighting its resilience and adaptability amid global challenges. She underscored the importance of innovation, research, and collaboration in driving the industry forward, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting aerospace technology development.

    Building on this message, the forum underscored the industry’s commitment to innovation and the development of aerospace technology towards a greener future for flight. Over two panel discussion sessions, nine Chief Technology Officers, many from the AAIS membership, shared breathtaking concepts of the future being developed today.

    In Panel 1 on Smart Aerospace, speakers delved into the transformative potential of digital technologies to revolutionise every aspect of aerospace operations. From integrating artificial intelligence to leveraging digital solutions and robotics, the panel explored ways to enhance aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and overall industry resilience. The following industry leaders shared their insights:

    • Dr. Todd Citron, Chief Technology Officer, The Boeing Company
    • Dr. Francis Preli, Vice President, Propulsion & Materials Technologies, Pratt & Whitney
    • Mr. David So, Senior Vice President, Corporate Planning & Continuous Improvement, SIA Engineering Company
    • Dr. Sean Black, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Engineer, Spirit AeroSystems
    • Dr. Bernhard Quendt, Group Chief Technology Officer, Thales

    Moderator: Mr. Mervyn Tan, Chief Executive, Defence Science and Technology Agency

    The second panel on Net Zero 2050 focused on sustainability strategies towards the industry’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Discussions centred on the development and implementation of sustainable solutions for reducing the environmental impact of aviation. Leaders explored promising avenues, including the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), electric and hybrid-electric propulsion technologies, and advancements in aircraft design that optimize fuel efficiency. Speakers for the session were:

    • Mr. Stephen McCullough, Senior Vice President, Engineering & Product Development, Bombardier
    • Mr. Todd Giles, Chief Technology Officer, Honeywell
    • Mr. Simon Burr, Group Director of Engineering, Technology & Safety, Rolls-Royce
    • Ms. Lee Hui Fung, Senior Vice President & Head, Innovation and Continuous Improvement, ST Engineering

    Moderator: Mr. Sia Kheng Yok, Chief Executive, Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore)

    In light of recent global disruptions, the forum also addressed the critical need for building strong and adaptable supply chains within the aerospace industry. Strategies put forth included diversification of suppliers, collaboration and sharing of resources, and leveraging technologies such as blockchain for enhanced supply chain transparency, advanced analytics for better demand forecasting, and additive manufacturing for on-demand production of critical parts.

    The forum concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing optimism for the future of Singapore’s aerospace sector. Emphasis was placed on the importance of continued investment in innovation, fostering collaboration across the industry, and nurturing a skilled workforce. The discussions also served as a call to action for the aerospace industry, setting the stage for driving the next wave of advancements.

    We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partner A*STAR, speakers, and attendees for their invaluable contributions, insights, and active participation.

     

  • First RSAF Preparatory Training for M08 Basic Aerodynamics

    A key element of our RSAF membership programme is the SAR66 preparatory training we provide Member Plus+ candidates. We were delighted to kick off this programme with 29 members participating in the first session of M08 Basic Aerodynamics held on 17 February 2024. This was the first in a series of similar courses to be run throughout the year in accordance with our MOU with the RSAF signed in July 2023.

  • ‘Unlock Procurement Wins’ Seminar

    In the lead up to Singapore Airshow 2024, AAIS organised a seminar on 25 January 2024 to prime our members and exhibitors on the changes to the aerospace procurement landscape, and the strategy for winning new business. ‘Unlock Procurement Wins: Strategies for Suppliers’ was well-attended despite the inclement weather and also offered yet another good opportunity to network with other members.

    Chris Hampden from ArcBlue Consulting shared how commercial aerospace procurement had evolved. He noted how multiple events in recent times had disrupted the supply chain to varying degrees, including wars, political and economic tensions, the pandemic, resource shortages, closure of shipping routes, etc.  All this had increased business and operational risks for global manufacturers. Chris described how this translated into new priorities for supply chains, such as achieving a balance between global vs regional suppliers, cost effectiveness vs low cost, optimised inventories vs lean inventories, and derisking through multi-sourcing.

    Amy Lees from Shipley followed up with anecdotes from her extensive experience in bid and account management to discuss techniques for suppliers to determine their competitive position, and to communicate their offer in such as way as to increase the chances of success. She pointed out that a proactive approach was needed to engage potential customers on their needs and to pre-position one’s business for the eventual procurement exercise.

    The seminar concluded with a panel discussion on the practical aspects of responding to the insights shared. We thank Chris and Amy, and all participants for their active engagement.

    For those who missed the event, video recordings of the seminar will be posted when ready.

     

  • Visit by the Guangxi Education Bureau

    AAIS was pleased to host a group of 36 senior academics from various vocational institutes across the Guangxi province in China, to the Seletar Aerospace Park on 10 January 2024. The visit was facilitated by Ngee Ann Polytechnic.

    Mr Sia, Chief Executive of AAIS, gave an informative presentation to the participants. The sharing covered a range of topics such as the development of Seletar Aerospace Park, the overview of Singapore’s aerospace industry, as well as current topics of interest such as Sustainability and Unmanned Aircraft.

Events 2023
  • Propel Book Sharing @ Rolls-Royce

    AAIS was pleased to be invited by Rolls-Royce Singapore on 28 November 2023 to facilitate an internal sharing session on the rich history of the aerospace industry in Singapore.  This was held in conjunction with the recent launch of Propel, a commemorative publication by AAIS that delves into the legacy and development of the Singapore aviation and aerospace industries.

    The session featured Mr Goh Yong Kiat, the lead author of Propel. Mr Goh kicked off the session by delving into his journey and passion for documenting the history of Singapore’s aerospace industry and his research process, showcasing the various books he has authored on the subject throughout the years. He went on to share captivating historical anecdotes about the development of the industry, touching on the early presence of Rolls Royce in Singapore, and the engines that have powered various aircraft in service over Singapore since.

    A self-professed aviation geek, plane spotter and bird watcher, Mr Goh also shared many photos and images that that vividly illustrated the evolution of aviation and aerospace infrastructure as well as historical decisions and milestones in Singapore’s aviation history.

    At the end of the enriching session, participants also engaged in a Q&A with Mr Goh and took the opportunity to have their copies of Propel personally signed.

    We extend our sincere gratitude to Rolls-Royce Singapore for graciously hosting the session, Mr Goh Yong Kiat for his invaluable time and insights, and all participants for their keen participation and support of Propel.

     

     

  • AAIS 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner

    The Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) proudly marked the culmination of its 20th Anniversary activities with an industry Gala Dinner held on 9 November 2023 at the Singapore Island Country Club. Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of State for Trade & Industry and Culture, Community and Youth, graced the occasion as the evening’s guest of honour. The Gala drew attendance from senior representatives of the AAIS membership, industry professionals, and valued partners.

    A Prelude to Celebration

    The festivities began with a vibrant pre-dinner programme, inviting guests to engage in various activities. Attendees perused and acquired copies of the commemorative book, “Propel,” at the book sales counter and explored the captivating “Flying Seeds” photo exhibition by Richard JW Koh. Amidst networking, guests enjoyed posing for instant digital photos and admired the 3D-printed AAIS logo showcase.

     

      

    Reflecting on Progress and Achievements

    The dinner programme commenced with an opening address by AAIS President, Mr Wong Yue Jeen, who shared insightful reflections on the Association’s journey, from its inception to overcoming challenges and achieving milestones. Mr Wong expressed his appreciation for the individuals, corporate members, industry professionals and leaders past and present for their contributions in building a resilient association that stands as an asset to the aerospace and aviation communities.

      

    The evening’s highlights included the launch of AAIS’s commemorative book, “Propel,” which chronicles the remarkable journey of Singapore’s aviation and aerospace industries, featuring stories and contributions from major aerospace players. The Association also launched the Promising Entrepreneurs Programme, designed to cultivate the development of next-generation leaders from local SMEs, equipping them with essential knowledge and skills to navigate the aerospace industry. Read more about the launch of Propel HERE, and the Promising Entrepreneurs Programme announcement HERE.

    Celebrating with Members

    AAIS took pride in celebrating its 20th Anniversary in the presence of members who were also marking significant milestones of their own including anniversaries, new investments, and expansions. The Association was delighted to receive a specially commissioned painting from Transfingo Group, a member celebrating its own 20th-year mark. The work by Singaporean artist Zhu Hong depicts the dynamism of aerospace and aviation in Singapore, its continuous evolution and the industry’s esprit de corps.

    From left: Mr Jeremy Chan, Chairman Transingo Aviation Solutions; Mr Wong Yue Jeen, AAIS President; Mr Kelvin Chung,
    Group Managing Director Transfingo Group of Companies; and Mr Sia Kheng Yok, AAIS Chief Executive.

    Honouring Long-Standing Members

    AAIS took the opportunity to recognise and honour long-standing members who have demonstrated unwavering support and commitment for 15 years and more. AAIS 1st Vice-President Mr Richard Wong presented certificates of recognition to representatives of long-standing member companies who were present at the Gala dinner.

    From left: Mr Brian Hunter, Parker Hannifin Singapore; Ms Defelyn Kim. Aerospace Component Engineering Services; Mr Desmond Lim, Wah Son Engineering; Mr Darren Wiggins, Meggitt Aerospace Asia Pacific; Mr Chu Pau Hua, Safran Landing Systems Services Singapore; Ms Emily Tan, Thales Solutions Asia; Mr Alister Beck, Element Testing Services; Mr Richard Wong, AAIS; Mr Foo Kean Shuh, SIA Engineering Company; Mr Rahul Shah, AAR International Inc; Mr Michael Oxborrow, ACP Metal Finishing;  Mr Patrick Curtin, Boeing Distribution; Mr Johnny Eng, Singapore Aero Engine Services; Mr Oliver Chamberlain, Rolls-Royce Singapore; Mr Francis Lim, Republic Polytechnic; Mr Ng Ker Wei, Ngee Ann Polytechnic

    The full list of long-standing AAIS members is as follows:

    Charter Members
    Element Testing Services (S) Pte Ltd
    Honeywell Aerospace Singapore Pte Ltd
    Satair Pte Ltd
    SIA Engineering Company Ltd
    Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd (SAESL)
    Thales Solutions Asia Pte Ltd
    Windsor Airmotive Asia Pte Ltd

    Ordinary Members
    AAR International Inc
    ACP Metal Finishing Pte Ltd
    Aerospace Component Engineering Services Pte Ltd
    AIM MRO Singapore Pte Ltd
    Boeing Distribution Pte Ltd
    Meggitt Aerospace Asia Pacific Pte Ltd
    Parker Hannifin Singapore Pte Ltd
    Prime Aerospace Pte Ltd
    Rolls-Royce Singapore Pte Ltd
    Safran Landing Systems Services Singapore Pte Ltd
    Tri-Wing Aviation Resources Pte Ltd
    Wah Son Engineering Pte. Ltd.

    Associate Members
    Aerospec Supplies Pte Ltd
    Hitech Heat Treatment Services Pte Ltd
    Nanyang Polytechnic
    Nanyang Technological University
    Ngee Ann Polytechnic
    Quality-Pulse Consultancy
    Republic Polytechnic
    Singapore Polytechnic
    Temasek Polytechnic

    A spirited “Yum Seng!” capped off the evening as members and guests joined AAIS long-standing members and the Management Committee in toasting to the Association’s 20th Anniversary and the continued success of the industry.

    Members and guests joined AAIS long-standing members and Management Committee toasting to the
    Association’s 20th Anniversary and the continued success of the industry.

    The 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner truly celebrated the community’s heritage and progress. We extend our sincere gratitude to our Platinum and Gold Sponsors for their generous support, which elevated the success of the event. Our heartfelt thanks to members for the congratulatory messages and to everyone for their presence at the gala dinner, reflecting the spirit of camaraderie within the aerospace community and contributing to the festive atmosphere.

       

        

     

    To view and download more photos from the event, visit the AAIS 20th Gala Dinner Instant Gallery.

    See also the Gala Dinner Supplement (Web), and the Media Release.

     

  • Launch of AAIS Commemorative Book, PROPEL

    In a culmination of activities marking 20 years of dedication to advancing the Singapore aerospace industry, the Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) (AAIS) held a gala event on 9 November celebrating the heritage and progress of the Singapore aerospace and aviation sectors. At the heart of this celebration was the unveiling of a special commemorative publication – Propel.

    The launch unfolded with a trailer on the publication (see above) featuring Mr Goh Yong Kiat, who authored the main narrative of the book. With anticipation in the air, the evening’s guest-of-honour Mr Alvin Tan (Minister of State for Trade & Industry and Community, Culture & Youth) and AAIS President Mr Wong Yue Jeen took to the stage, joined by past presidents of AAIS – Mr Oh Wee Khoon (AAIS President 2003-2006) and Mr Philip Quek (AAIS President 2016 – 2021). Mr Tan and Mr Wong unveiled the cover of Propel, to the appreciation and applause of industry supporters present.

       
    Unveiling of the AAIS commemorative book, Propel. From left: Mr Oh Wee Khoon; Mr Wong Yue Jeen; MOS Alvin Tan; and Mr Philip Quek.

    AAIS was also proud to be joined by contributors and sponsors of the publication which were represented by senior executives for a group photo on stage.

    Guest-of-honour and representatives from sponsoring companies and contributors of Propel. From left: Mr Patrick Curtin (The Boeing Company), Mr Oliver Chamberlain (Rolls-Royce Singapore), Ms Marie-Agnes Veve (Airbus Singapore), Mr Iain Rodger (GE Aerospace), Mr Foo Kean Shuh (SIA Engineering Company), Mr Wong Yue Jeen (AAIS), Mr Alvin Tan (Minister of State for Trade & Industry and Culture, Community & Youth), Ms Glory Wee (Singapore Economic Development Board), Mr Shangari Meleschi (Pratt & Whitney), Ms Emily Tan (Thales Singapore), Mr Michael Oxborrow (ACP Metal Finishing) and Mr Cheam Hing Gee (Collins Aerospace).

    AAIS, with the strong support of the Singapore aerospace community, is proud to celebrate the milestones that have propelled the Singapore aerospace and aviation industries into the next frontier with the launch of this meaningful book. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the authors, sponsors and supporters who have contributed to the realisation of this unique and special publication. We also thank all industry members for their support of the book.

    ABOUT PROPEL

    Propel traces the humble beginnings and fascinating rise of aviation and aerospace in Singapore. The book’s central narrative explores the history of aviation in the island nation, from the first airfields of the Royal Air Force to the development of Changi Airhub. Interspersed between the central narrative are stories contributed by leading aerospace companies in Singapore as well as the Economic Development Board. The book also features a message by Mr Gan Kim Yong, Singapore’s Minister for Trade & Industry. Together, Propel paints a vibrant and collective portrait of the aerospace sector’s growth, alongside the flourishing of Singapore’s air transport industry.

      
    From left: Image of ‘Propel’ dust jacket and cover

    Authors
    Mr Goh Yong Kiat
    for Chapter 1: “Where Aviation Takes Off” through Chapter 6: “Airlines of Singapore” and “History of Singapore Civil Aircraft Registration”

    Ms Glory Wee
    for Chapter 7: “Growth and Transformation of Singapore’s Aerospace Industry” and “Creating a Community”

    Sponsors & Feature Contributors
    ACP Metal Finishing
    Airbus Singapore
    Boeing Singapore
    Collins Aerospace
    GE Aerospace
    Pratt & Whitney
    Rolls-Royce Singapore
    SIA Engineering Company
    ST Engineering
    Thales Solutions Asia

    Supporter
    Singapore Economic Development Board

    Bibliographic Details
    Publisher: Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore)
    Publication date: 11/2023
    ISBN: 978-981-5060-51-5
    Type: Softcover with Dust jacket
    Size: 216mm x 216mm
    Extent: 184 pages

    Copies are available for corporate or personal orders through the following LINK or the widget below.
    For media or bulk purchase enquiries, please contact Ann Majid via email to ann@aais.org.sg.

     

  • AAIS Promising Entrepreneurs Programme (PEP)

    As part of our commitment to propelling industry growth and nurturing the next generation of leaders in the aerospace sector, the Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) proudly announced the inauguration of the Promising Entrepreneurs Programme (PEP) at its 20th Anniversary Gala dinner on 9 November. Tailored by AAIS, the PEP is a year-long programme that aims to provide next-generation SME leaders with the essential knowledge and skills to navigate the aerospace market and landscape.

    Singapore’s aerospace cluster is among the most developed in the region, offering promising opportunities for  SMEs. Nevertheless, it demands a high level of technical and business capabilities from its suppliers. Recognising this, the PEP was conceived to equip SME leaders with the necessary tools to understand, explore, and grow their businesses into the aerospace segments. These leaders, who are second, third, or fourth-generation members of family-owned businesses, either have taken over or are being prepared to take over the reins of their companies, and are actively exploring new capabilities, approaches, and markets.

    Going beyond theory, the PEP offers an immersive journey with industry visits, workshops, and curated activities for participants to gain an understanding and appreciation for the range of opportunities in the industry and network with OEMs, MNCs and fellow young leaders. Dr Koh Pak Keng, an entrepreneur and cold-spray technology expert, leads the programme, sharing his insights and experiences. The PEP will also be supported by Transfingo Group. Mr Kelvin Chung, its founder and Group Managing Director, is supportive of fostering the development of fellow SMEs in the spirit of mutual growth and advancement of the aerospace sector.

    The inaugural batch of the PEP includes a diverse group of SMEs, each contributing a unique perspective to the programme:

    1. Chee Fatt Co (Pte) Ltd
    2. Chemicals and Machinery Pte Ltd
    3. Chemtron Pte Ltd
    4. Fong Lee Metal Industries Pte Ltd
    5. KBG Contract Machining Pte Ltd
    6. Metalcool Pte Ltd
    7. Metall-Treat Industries Pte Ltd
    8. Sanxing Pte Ltd

    The PEP is just one example of how AAIS adds value to the aerospace industry, and we are excited about the positive impact it will have on the participants and in advancing the competitiveness of the industry as a whole.

    Launch of the Promising Entrepreneurs Programme at the AAIS 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner with next generation SME leaders  – (2nd from left) Mr Tony Moochala, Chemtron;
    (3rd from left) Mr Kwan Wai Yew, Chemicals & Machinery; 
    (5th from right) Mr Sean Wei Kwek, KBG Contract Machining; and (4th from right) Mr Kenneth Chan, Metalcool. 

    Minister of State Mr Alvin Tan interacting with participants of the PEP. 

     

  • RSAF AFEs visit Volocopter Showcase

    RSAF members had the opportunity to tour the Volocopter Showcase and ITE College Central hangar on 15 Nov 2023, in a visit coordinated by AAIS. We thank ITE and Volocopter for their kind arrangements.

    To begin, participants were given a briefing on the 3 aircraft types under development. These were the VoloCity for intracity travel, the VoloRegion for intercity flights and the VoloDrone for cargo flights (200 kg payload). The 2-seater VoloCity is pending initial airworthiness approvals by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), with first commercial flight expected in Paris in 2024. Plans for Singapore are initially for a tourism use case, with flights over Marina Bay and Kallang Basin.

    After an explanation and demonstration of the VoloPort check-in experience, participants were treated to a walk-round the full-scale VoloCity mock-up. This included a demonstration of its 18 rotors powered by low-noise electric motors, quick-swap battery compartment, and cockpit configured for autonomous flight. Participants also enjoyed a virtual reality flight experience.

  • 2nd EU-Asia UAS/UAM Symposium

    The 2nd EU-Asia UAS/UAM Symposium co-organised by EASA and CAAS was held from 7-11 Nov 2024 in Singapore. AAIS and local industry players were once again invited to present and participate in the sessions on 9 and 10 Oct 2023. Chaired by CAAS Senior Director and CTO Mr Tan Kah Han, the 2 days were an excellent time of exchange, learning and networking.

     

    Amongst other things, industry benefited from the summary of the prior 2 days’ discussions between regulators (below). It has often been discussed that harmonisation of regulations could help accelerate deployment of new UAS/UAM concepts and technologies. However, Mr Tan explained in his introduction that convergence was instead more realistic and also beneficial.

    Capacity and capability building for UAS and UAM regulatory development

    1. Organisation structure and regulations needed to evolve to complement evolving technology
    2. Staff training is needed to ensure that CAA is able to facilitate the needs of industry. “Can do attitude”
    3. Due to uniqueness of each State’s operation environment, it is more likely for regulations to converge than to be harmonised

    Drone regulations

    1. Rapid growth of UAS industry and varied use cases have led to an increase in complexity. The challenges posed in the areas of safety, security and resources were common to countries
    2. Authorities can consider developing adaptive regulations to deal with such challenges
    3. In making regulations, need to place attention on details such as language differences, simplicity for ease of understanding requirements, and the use of visuals to support implementation
    4. Collaboration is key. An open-minded attitude by regulators and industry is needed to accommodate diverse perspectives and innovative solutions

    Approaches to VTOL certification, validation and acceptance

    1. Certification requires close cooperation between State of Design and industry. CAA needed to rapidly build up specialist knowledge (e.g. electric propulsion)
    2. Stepwise innovative approach (initial mitigation with tight operational limitations that are gradually lifted with experience)
    3. Having a good CONOPS would help State of Registry and Operators to communicate with State of Design, and ensure operational considerations are included in the certification

    Entry into Service/Building a sustainable Innovative Air Mobility (IAM) hub

    1. Adapt current regulations to support EIS while being mindful of individual CONOPS
    2. Public and local authority acceptance is vital, and the industry should be involved in engagement efforts
    3. Trust needs to be built with all stakeholders to create a single source of truth for safety, privacy, noise and sustainability aspects.

    Approaches to Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management

    1. The different implementation architectures were discussed, and which services needed to be centralised and which could be provided by UTM SPs
    2. Noting that many countries will seek to deploy UTM as a cloud-based set of services, security was a key concern

    Day 3 and Day 4 discussions shed light on how VTOL and UTM were expected to take shape, as regulators and industry continued to engage on pioneering a path forward.

    UAS Operators – Industry Perspectives

    1. Collaboration between Industry and regulators to identify and overcome obstacles in carrying out UAS operations
    2. Approvals on an organizational level rather than an activity level can help ease regulatory burdens
    3. Policies need to be updated more frequently and agile in line with the evolving technology
    4. Positive community engagement by the regulator is important to show the community that drones are a reliable permanent offering

    Outlook of UAS/UAM Market Development

    1. Next phase of AAM development will focus on implementation
        • Tech need to outperform current modes of transport
        • Ability to take over existing routes
        • Create new demand
        • Scalable infrastructure
    2. Social Acceptance needs to be addressed
    3. Expanding the Aircraft Protocol will help to create support for investment and financing for scaling

    UTM Operators –  Industry Perspectives

    1. Many stakeholders involved. Important to bring technology, standards and regulations together
    2. Starting from cooperative traffic management, the path from regulatory strategic conflict detection to strategic deconfliction needs to be defined
    3. Involvement of the State in nationalization of services, ensuring national needs and guarantee the interoperability of UTM and nationalized services
    4. Different approaches (UTM services non-certified vs certified) and different architecture solutions (distributed vs federated vs centralized) are under debate
    5.  Academia can support with valuable studies and simulations

    VTOL OEM Perspectives

    1. Most manufacturers are choosing to advance stepwise from pilot on board first, to certain levels of automation, to autonomy
    2. Existing ATM will likely be able to support at the beginning due to the lower number of operations, but UATM systems will be needed due to the high number of operations in future
    3. Battery is a key technology, where continued research is expected to improve energy density, reducing weight and cost.
    4. The VTOL design will be scalable: the first entrant will be the least profitable: better battery will allow to increase payload and performance

    We thank EASA and CAAS for this visionary effort to level up both regulators and industry on the developments in UAM/UAS and to facilitate a platform for constructive dialogue.

     

     

  • Air Navigation World 2023: ATM Procedures for Today

    AAIS and its Air Traffic Management (ATM) sector members (ASI, Heron AirBridge, NATS, Frequentis, Thales, Viasat etc) attended the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) ‘Air Navigation World ATM Procedures for Today’ global conference hosted by CAAS in Singapore on 23-27 Oct 2023. Some 450 participants from 56 States, international organizations and industry from around the world gathered for focused knowledge exchange, with the goal of facilitating global implementation of mature ATM procedures.

    At the event, Mr Chee Hong Tat, Acting Minister of Transport, pledged a voluntary contribution of $200,000 towards ICAO’s Transformational Objective and cybersecurity programme. A further pledge of $100,000 was made by CAAS towards training and consultancy projects coordinated by ICAO in support of the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS).

    The event also saw the signing of two Letters of Intent on the sidelines:

    (1) Asia-Pacific Trajectory-Based Operation (TBO) Pathfinder Project. Ten air navigation service providers (ANSPs) from China, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States, the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) signed an agreement to jointly define, develop, and demonstrate TBO for the Asia-Pacific region within four years.

    (2)  South-East Asia – Oceania Implementation of Free Route Operations (FRTO) Project. Five ANSPs from Indonesia, New Zealand, and Singapore, CANSO, and IATA signed an agreement to identify applicable city pairs and flights, and validate the use of FRTO between defined cities within a year.

    Congratulations to CAAS on successfully hosting the event and putting a spotlight on Asia and the Pacific.

    To view video recordings on ICAO TV: https://www.icao.tv/air-navigation-world/season:2

    Read press releases:  https://lnkd.in/gYMsgqxp
    https://lnkd.in/g-GR7aVA

    Read Acting Transport Minister’s Welcome Remarks:  https://lnkd.in/gBvz9qJP

  • AAIS 21st Annual General Meeting

    The 21st Annual General Meeting of the Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) took place on 20 October 2023 at the WingsOverAsia Lounge in Seletar Aerospace Park. AAIS members were present in good numbers, and early birds took the opportunity to catch up with each other before the commencement of the proceedings.

     

    The AGM commenced with opening remarks by AAIS President, Mr Wong Yue Jeen, who highlighted the industry’s promising path to recovery and growth. Referencing the Aerospace and Air Transport Industry Transformation Maps (ITMs), Mr Wong emphasised the Association’s role in advancing and promoting the aerospace and aviation industries. He noted that the association will continue its focus on key agenda items for the industry including Sustainability, Safety, Talent Development, and Supply Chain Resilience.

    Following the opening remarks were the Annual Report Presentation by Honorary Secretary, Ms Lim Hee Joo, and a financial performance overview of the past fiscal year by Honorary Treasurer, Mr Desmond Goh.

    During the AGM, AAIS members endorsed the FY2022/23 Annual Report and the audited Financial Report. Members approved the reappointment of Mr Paul Sandosham of Clifford Chance as Honorary Legal Advisor, and Ernst & Young as the Honorary External Auditor for the Association.

     

    Appreciation for the 13th Management Committee 2021/23

    The Association also recorded its appreciation to the 13th Management Committee for its leadership and support from the midst of the pandemic in 2021 to the post-pandemic period of recovery and growth. Two MC members who stepped down from the committee at the AGM were recognised:

    1. Mr Mads Bondergaard ​(AAIS 2nd Vice-President​ – October 2020 – October 2023​)
    2. Ms Yap Siok Leng​ (AAIS Assistant Hon. Treasurer​ – October 2021 – October 2023​)

    Appointment of the 14th Management Committee 2021/23

    Eligible AAIS members participated in an election to elect the new 14th Management Committee which will be serving a two-year term (until AGM in 2025). The election results for the 14th AAIS Management Committee were announced. We congratulate all elected members of the committee!

    Three AAIS Secretariat staff were recognised for their long years of service. The AGM formalities then concluded with closing remarks from re-elected AAIS President, Mr Wong Yue Jeen. Mr Wong celebrated the achievements of the association’s 20th Anniversary projects and highlighted AAIS’ involvement in the upcoming Singapore Airshow in February 2024.

     

  • Frequentis celebrates Asian Competence Centre opening with AAIS

    L-R: Frequentis CEO Norbert Haslacher, Dr Harald Mahrer, President of WKO, and Sia KY, Chief Executive AAIS

    AAIS was honoured to participate in the grand opening of the Asian Competence Centre (ACC) of our member, Frequentis, on 13 Oct 2023. The ACC showcases the operational capabilities of Frequentis’ safety-critical solutions including various simulators for air traffic management, and the Frequentis multimedia control room solution LifeX for emergency services. The occasion also marked the company’s 20th year since its incorporation in Singapore. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was presided over by Dr Harald Mahrer, President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO), Frequentis CEO Norbert Haslacher and Chief Executive AAIS.

    The event was graced by His Excellency Peter Guschelbauer, Austrian Ambassador to Singapore, VP Soo Haw Yun of EDB, Soh Poh Theen, Director Asia Pacific of CANSO, partners, suppliers and industry guests.

    Dr Mahrer lauded the strong business ties established with Singapore by Austrian businesses like Frequentis. Chief Executive Sia noted that AAIS was also celebrating its 20th anniversary as an aviation/aerospace community. He spoke of the business ecosystem envisaged by the recently refreshed Aerospace and Air Transport Transformation Maps and how the Asian Competence Centre could play a role in engendering conversations about future ATM systems and communications, catalysing co-innovation in airspace management. In his remarks, CEO Haslacher paid tribute to the dedication of Frequentis staff and spoke of the company’s long term approach to business and illustrated this with its 30-year relationship with Singapore supplier, Precision Technologies.

    Our congratulations to Frequentis on its 20th year in Singapore and the opening of its Asian Competence Centre.

    Photos: Frequentis, Soo HY, AAIS

  • 4th ASEAN Sustainability Forum

    4th ASEAN Sustainability Forum

    The 4th ASEAN Sustainability Forum was organised on the sidelines of the 48th ASEAN Air Transport Working Group meeting on 4 Oct 2023 at Amara Hotel, Singapore. This was the fourth such session under the two-year chairmanship of CAAS and once again, AAIS members were invited to participate in the proceedings in-person or on-line. Speakers at the event included AAIS, Boeing, CSIRO, ICAO and EcoCeres.

    AAIS Chief Executive was privileged to address the Forum, sharing the vision of the Association, “an innovative aerospace community for a sustainable future”. He illustrated how this had guided AAIS’ efforts to build consensus and galvanise the community to action on the environmental, social and economic dimensions of sustainability. Various examples of industry initiatives in Singapore were cited, demonstrating the strong shared emphasis on sustainability. At an international level, AAIS worked primarily through the ICCAIA to support ICAO and global efforts. Locally, two of AAIS current projects were cited – the tracking of solar energy adoption by the industry, and the development of a sustainability framework for clusters.

  • RSAF Members visit SIAEC Safety Promotion Centres

    AAIS organized a visit to the SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC) Safety Promotion Centres for RSAF members on 29 Sep 2023.

    Participants were conducted on guided tours of the Aviation Safety Promotion Centre and the Workplace Safety Promotion Centre. These centres were established by SIAEC to augment safety training programmes for its staff with the aim of reinforcing workplace safety culture and mindset.

    The Aviation Safety Centre included immersive media and informational displays drawing on past incidents from around the world. The Workplace Safety Promotion Centre offered an integrated learning environment combining classroom-based lessons, and experiential and visual learning for participants.

    Attendees from various units, including AFI and QAB, gained a comprehensive overview of safety protocols and practices in the  commercial aerospace industry. The interactive exhibits coupled with detailed explanations by our experienced hosts left an lasting impression. Thank you to SIAEC for hosting, and we look forward to seeing more of our RSAF Members at our future events!

  • Roundtable with Chair of UK CAA

    Roundtable with Sir Stephen Hillier, Chairman UK CAA

    A Roundtable with Chair of UK CAA, Sir Stephen Hillier, was held on 28 Sep 2023 and ably moderated by Derek Cheng, Head of Commercial APAC at Vertical Aerospace. The session took place on the sidelines of the Global Urban and Advanced Air Summit 2023 in Singapore and was hosted at Bombardier Aerospace Services. Participants included representatives from AAIS, Air Asia, Bombardier, CAAS, EDB, NATS, SIA Engineering Co, Skyports, ST Engineering, and Vertical Aerospace.

    Participants spoke of their roles in the Aerospace ecosystem, with particular reference to Urban Air Mobility. Issues of common concern were raised and views exchanged about the global talent challenge and the need for agility by regulators. The latter pointed to a need for closer cooperation with industry. Naturally this also necessitated organisational changes and safeguards to avoid the risk of “regulatory capture”. On green aviation, there were concerns about an over reliance on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as a solution. There was uncertainty over whether the production of SAF was able to grow as rapidly as the demand suggested by net zero commitments.

     

     

  • MRO Asia Pacific 2023

    Awards Ceremony at CHIJMES

    AAIS had a successful week at MRO Asia Pacific, beginning with the MRO Asia Pacific Awards Ceremony on 25 Sep 2023. The former Chapel at CHIJMES provided a stunning backdrop as awards were presented to deserving companies and individuals. Congratulations to all winners, with a special shoutout to Singapore-based MROs: Bombardier, ST Engineering and SIA Engineering Company.

    Briefing to Queensland delegates

    AAIS also had the privilege of collaborating with Trade and Investment Queensland to brief the visiting Queensland delegates and exhibitors on Singapore industry developments, and to support business networking.

    Overview of the Singapore Pavilion

     

    Opening day crowd at MRO Asia Pacific 2023

    The following days of exhibition at Singapore Expo were notable for the palpable energy at the Singapore Pavilion, comprising 22 exhibitors. The opening day crowd was a testament to the show’s growth and success. Adding to the buzz, we were also pleased to welcome members and friends to the AAIS booth on 27 Sep 3 pm for a beer and moon cakes.

    Members getting acquainted

    We extend our heartfelt thanks to Singapore Pavilion exhibitors, partners and friends for making this a worthwhile outing. Kudos to everyone involved in making the show bigger and better than ever.

    Singapore Pavilion Exhibitors:

    ACME Manufacturing Company Pte Ltd
    Applied Total Control Treatment Pte Ltd
    Assa Abloy Entrance Systems Singapore Pte Ltd
    ATEQ Singapore Pte Ltd
    Auxitrol Weston Singapore Pte Ltd
    Aviation Partner & Consulting Pte Ltd
    Ban Chu Leong Technologies Pte Ltd
    Bollore Logistics Singapore Pte Ltd
    CF Global Technologies Pte Ltd
    Coway Engineering & Marketing Pte Ltd
    CW Aero Services Pte Ltd
    Fluke South East Asia Pte Ltd
    Hypercoat Enterprises Pte Ltd
    Prime Aerospace Pte Ltd
    R.I.S.E Aerospace Pte Ltd
    RVI Inspection and Equipment Pte Ltd
    Sanxing Pte Ltd
    Saservo Pte Ltd
    Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd
    SP Manufacturing Pte Ltd
    Transfingo Aviation Solutions Pte Ltd
    Vallen Singapore Pte Ltd

    photo credits: Aerophotoworks for AAIS

  • Visit by Korea SMEs and Startups Agency

    AAIS was pleased to welcome the Chief Audit Executive Mr Park Jeong yeol of the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME) to Seletar Aerospace Park on 7 Sep 2023. It was an opportunity to discuss the recovery of the aviation and aerospace sectors, and the development of Seletar Aerospace Park. We also spoke of possibilities for cooperation with KOSME and Korean SMEs and startups. This would build on existing warm relations with the Korea Aerospace Industries Association (KAIA) and other Korean agencies. We welcome the renewal and strengthening of international ties and industrial cooperation post-pandemic.

     

     

  • eVTOLS: A Revolution in Aerial Mobility?

    Electric-powered vertical lift was once again in focus on 5 Sep 2023, via a webinar organised by S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) and supported by AAIS. The webinar was moderated by Chris Leck of RSIS, with panelists, Derek Cheng (Vertical Aerospace), Andrew Cummins (Archer Aviation), Damian Kysely (Skyports Infrastructure) and Prof James Wang (NTU).

    The eVTOL frontrunners are aiming for airworthiness certifications from next year, and to launch commercial operations soon after, in conjunction with major events. There was consensus that this new mode of transport would take root from the late 2020s onwards, with new battery tech enabling greater payloads or longer ranges.

    Even as new tech is introduced, this has to done with attention to the priorities of safety and reliability. Some discussion ensued regarding the different approaches to certification by FAA and EASA, and the hope for harmonisation. Standardisation is also desirable for vertiport design and battery charging, to support different aircraft types.

    The gamechanger will be the introduction of autonomy and UTM. This will alleviate constraints such as the availability of pilots, and the ability to manage large numbers of air taxis operating in urban airspace.

    The panel concluded that Singapore could be a lead adopter for intra and intercity flights, and benefit from attracting industry and R&D activities.

     

  • Aerospace Partners’ Golf Tournament 2023

    The highly anticipated annual Aerospace Partners’ Golf Tournament co-organised by AAIS swung into action again at Tanah Merah Country Club Tampines Course on 25 August 2023. This year’s APGT saw the participation of over 100 golfers from across the aerospace industry.

    Despite the delay in tee-off due to unfavourable weather conditions, spirits were high and participants took the time to connect and catch up with one another. Eventually, the rain subsided and excited participants made their way to the golf course with bright skies accompanying the golfers throughout the rest of the afternoon. Roving buggies were also activated to ensure a continuous supply of beer, 100-Plus, bananas and chocolate bars for participants in between strokes.

    The evening programme began with pre-dinner wine-tasting, followed by an opening performance by the boy’s brigade bagpipe band, and the networking dinner. One of the evening programme highlights was a speech by Mr Alister Ong, CPAS Board Member and inclusivity consultant at Michael Page, who shared his experiences developing a thriving career as a PWD. Mr Ong noted that CPAS had recently opened a second school in Jurong West – CPAS School (West) – to cater to the needs of children with cerebral palsy and multiple disabilities living in the western region of Singapore. (CPAS has operated its school in Pasir Ris since 2003).  He thanked the tournament participants and dinner guests for their generosity and called for continued support for CPAS. Participants responded at the charity art auction later on in the evening, actively bidding for unique artworks by the beneficiaries of CPAS. The dinner concluded with a prize presentation for the tournament and an exciting Raffle draw, where lucky winners walked away with attractive prizes.

    It was a meaningful day of sportsmanship, philanthropy and networking for participating industry members. On behalf of the APGT Organising Committee, we thank all participants, sponsors, donors and volunteers for their generosity and outstanding support! All net proceeds from the event will be donated to CPAS. To find out more or make further/personal contributions, please visit https://cpas.org.sg/donate/

    Congratulations to all winners!

    Tournament Winners

    Champion: Geofrey Grier

    1st Runner Up: Rong Ming

    2nd Runner Up: Xavier Wong

    Best Flights: Flight 10B

    1. Xavier Wong
    2. Syafiq Supingi
    3. Fabian Ong
    4. Hazel Liu

    Novelty Prize Winners

    Longest Drive (Below 50 yrs old): Oliver Chng

    Longest Drive (Above 50 yrs old): Khairul Anuar

    Nearest to Pin: Girad Cher

     

  • Understanding Procedural Drift and its Effects

    Adherence to established procedures is the cornerstone of aviation safety and operational efficiency in the air transport industry. Yet, despite the rigorous training of aerospace engineers and technicians, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continues to find that “deviations from approved procedures continue to be a leading cause of maintenance-related aircraft accidents”.

    As part of our efforts to raise awareness and promote aviation safety, AAIS organised an exclusive seminar, “Understanding Procedural Drift and its Effects,” to uncover and discuss the underlying causes and implications of procedural drift in aviation maintenance.

    Held on 14 August, the session featured Mr Jason Bok, Vice President of Quality & Safety for Commercial Aerospace Corporate at ST Engineering Aerospace. His comprehensive presentation delved into systemic, leadership, and team elements that contribute to procedural drift. He also offered his views and expertise on how precise preventive and corrective actions can be developed to counter this challenge. Jason also gamely took on questions from the audience which comprised aerospace professionals overseeing quality, safety, operations, training, production and the like.

    Despite a downpour that afternoon, the seminar was well attended by industry professionals and proved to be an invaluable platform for knowledge exchange and collective learning. We extend our gratitude to Mr Jason Bok for his enlightening insights and to all the attendees who participated actively at the event. Stay tuned for more enriching opportunities and knowledge-sharing activities as we strive to foster continuous growth and excellence.

     

  • AAIS Annual Futsal Tournament 2023

    The Premier Pitch was ablaze with action on 5 August as the annual AAIS Futsal Tournament 2023 unfolded, featuring 24 competitive teams. The event culminated in an adrenaline-fueled display of sportsmanship and camaraderie that truly encapsulated the spirit of the aerospace and aviation community.

    Ultimately, Pratt & Whitney Turbine Overhaul Services emerged as the ultimate champions, with tight teamwork and determination sealing their victory. The team from Singapore Aero Engine Services secured the title of 1st Runner-up through their commendable performance. Meanwhile, GE Aerospace showcased their mettle and secured the 2nd Runner-up spot after intense battles on the pitch.

    The tournament’s Most Valuable Player title went to Mr Faiz bin Abdullah from Pratt & Whitney Turbine Overhaul Services for his exceptional contributions.

    Our heartiest congratulations to all winners for their outstanding achievements! We also extend our heartfelt thanks to all participating teams, players, and everyone who attended, contributing to the atmosphere and making this event truly memorable. Thank you also to Mr Iain Rodgers, MD of GE Aerospace, for gracing the event and presenting prizes to the winning teams.

    View/download more photos from the event here:  https://www.aerophotoworks.com/aais-futsal23
    The password to view and download is: asfut23.
    Watermarks are only present on the gallery images for online protection and will not be on the final edited photos which you download.
    If you are using/sharing the photos on any public platform/media, please include a credit to “Aerophotoworks for AAIS”.

    Stay connected for more updates from the aerospace community!

     

  • OneAviation Careers Fair 2023

    The OneAviation Careers Fair 2023 was held from 4 to 5 Aug 2023 at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre. AAIS was pleased to support the event with a booth to (a) share with students and jobseekers about the aviation, aerospace and unmanned aircraft systems industries, (b) explain the Career Conversion Programme for aerospace, and (c) offer subscriptions to our soon-to-be launched Aerospace Singapore Digital web magazine.

    AAIS Booth

    In his opening speech at the Fair, Acting Minister for Transport, Chee Hong Tat, spoke of 3 challenges facing the industry as it recovers from the effects of the pandemic.

    (1) Tight labour market and ageing workforce
    (2) Reducing carbon emissions
    (3) Harnessing technology to compete as an air hub

    Acting Minister Chee Hong Tat delivers his opening speech

    Mr Chee also launched the Air Transport Industry Transformation Map (ITM) 2025 at the event. The ITM outlines the key priorities and strategies to transform Changi into a future-ready global aviation hub, while preparing to overcome the challenges the sector will face. It contains 4 key strategies to support innovation, productivity and workforce development in the air transport sector:

    (1) Building a safe and sustainable air hub
    (2) Transforming Airport Operations
    (3) Innovation at the Forefront of Aviation
    (4) Developing a Future-Ready and Resilient Workforce

    AAIS CE at ITM launch (2nd from left)

    AAIS was pleased to support the ITM alongside other stakeholders in the Air Transport sector.

  • New AAIS Logo Unveiling & RSAF MOU

    The Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) (AAIS) kicked off its 20th Anniversary celebrations, revealing a new logo reflecting its rejuvenation, present-day strategies and aspirations for the future.

    The official launch of the refreshed AAIS logo took place at the Aerospace Leaders’ Dialogue Singapore (ALDS) 2023 held on 21 July at the Fullerton Hotel. Ms Low Yen Ling, Minister of State for Trade & Industry, and Culture, Community, & Youth, graced the momentous occasion as the Guest-of-Honour, joining AAIS President Wong Yue Jeen to unveil the logo. The ceremony was witnessed by AAIS member representatives, partners and friends who packed the venue.

    The new AAIS logo features a contemporary line illustration of a soaring bird with wings spread wide, representing the industry’s boundless potential. Its clean lines reflect the industry’s pursuit of precision and excellence, while its dynamic form signifies agility and resilience in an evolving landscape. The logo’s sky-blue colour pays homage to the Association’s legacy, imbuing a sense of continuity into its refreshed identity.

     

    In his address to the attendees, Mr Wong noted the significant progress in recovery for the industry and lauded the collective efforts of industry leaders to achieve productivity gains, improved efficiencies, and enhanced competitiveness. On behalf of industry, he also expressed gratitude to government agency partners for their support and collaboration. Mr Wong said, “I am thrilled to unveil our new logo, representing our rejuvenation, our present-day strategies and future aspirations. This logo embodies our unwavering commitment to soaring higher together and delivering even greater value to our esteemed members.”

    The logo launch event exemplified the spirit of industry cooperation and showcased the capabilities of AAIS members and partners. A unique collaboration with the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), the Singapore University of Technology & Design (SUTD), and Additive Flight Solutions brought the new logo to life with an impressive 3D-printed logo display.

    A highlight of the event was the executive panel session featuring Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), Mr Han Kok Juan; Executive Vice President, Economic Development Board (EDB) Ms Cindy Koh; and Head of Air Engineering and Logistics of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), ME8 Timothy Yap. Discussions centered around strategic resilience in the face of challenges in the business and industry landscape. An engaging keynote address by Ms Mabel Kwan, Managing Director of Alton Aviation Consultancy Singapore on “The New Reality: Imperatives for Sustainable Growth” set the context for the discourse.

    Mr Han said, “I congratulate the Association of Aerospace Industries Singapore on its 20th year anniversary. The association has played an important role in developing the aerospace industry in Singapore and has been a strong partner in our efforts to grow our air hub. We look forward to their continued support in driving positive change and growth for the Singapore aviation hub.

    The momentous occasion was capped off with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between AAIS and RSAF. Through this collaboration, AAIS and RSAF will jointly support the professional development of RSAF technical personnel and the promotion of knowledge sharing across the commercial and defence aviation sectors.

    The launch of the new AAIS logo marks the pinnacle of a visual refresh project that spanned the past year with the involvement of the AAIS management committee. It also signals beginning of a series of activities planned over the next few months to celebrate the AAIS 20th Anniversary. Among the exciting initiatives, AAIS will soon launch the Aerospace Singapore digital (ASD) magazine and release a commemorative publication celebrating the heritage of the Singapore aerospace community. The celebrations will culminate in the 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner, scheduled for 9 November.

    Members are warmly invited to display the new AAIS logo on your websites to showcase your membership and vital role in the aerospace community. Join us in commemorating this special milestone together!

     

  • OJT Design and Coaching for HR and Operations Managers

    In an evolving business landscape, optimising operational efficiency and productivity while balancing employee satisfaction stands as a pivotal task for organisations across the industry. As transformative technologies continue to be rolled out and air travel activities intensify, aerospace companies are challenged to provide hands-on training to both existing and new employees, ensuring practical skills are honed and knowledge is seamlessly transferred.

    To address these considerations, AAIS collaborated with Ngee Ann Polytechnic to present a webinar on “OJT Design and Coaching for HR and Operations Managers”. Held on 6 July, the webinar illuminated strategies and tools for effective on-the-job training (OJT) and coaching.

    Anchoring the webinar, Dr Sara Zaman, Lead of NACE@NP at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, delved into the development of a blueprint for structured OJT. This encompassed key aspects, including the identification of work scope, formulation of assessment criteria, and development of training processes. Dr Sara also addressed effective coaching methods to engage employees and bridge performance gaps, and proposed strategies to drive teams towards peak performance.

    Discussions also touched on subsidies, supports, and funding available for structured OJT and coaching initiatives, with potentially up to 90% support. Ms Marlia Mohamed Isnin, Manager of Industry Engagement at Workforce Singapore, provided an overview of the Career Conversion Programme for Aerospace, another valuable avenue for aerospace companies to tap into for support of OJT training.

    The sessions were followed by interactive Q&A segments, enabling participants to glean deeper insights and clarify their queries.

    We extend our sincere appreciation to the speakers and all participants for their active involvement.

     

  • Visit by Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan

    Ambassador Askar Kuttykadam visits AAIS

    It was an honour to host His Excellency Askar Kuttykadam, Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Singapore and Ms Mika Japarova, Embassy Consul, at Seletar Aerospace Park on 4 July 2023. The Ambassador was briefed on the developments in aviation and aerospace in Singapore and about Seletar Aerospace Park. A fruitful exchange followed on industry developments in Kazakhstan and opportunities to explore cooperation. We thank the Ambassador for his visit and interest.

  • AAIS joins Global Aerospace Cluster Partnership

    Delegates at the Global Aerospace Cluster Summit 2023

    AAIS joined hands with 12 international Aerospace clusters on 23 June 2023 to found the Global Aerospace Cluster Partnership (GACP). The 12 clusters include the European Aerospace Cluster Partnership (EACP) that represents 48 associations. The official signing took place at the annual Global Aerospace Cluster Summit organised by the EACP secretariat and held on the sidelines of the International Paris Airshow 2023. We thank the Singapore Economic Development Board for being the venue sponsor for this year’s Global Aerospace Cluster Summit and for speaking at the event.

    EDB’s regional director speaking at the Summit

    Since 2017, Global Aerospace Cluster Summits have been held on the sidelines of Paris and Farnborough air shows and acted as a catalyst for collaboration amongst aerospace clusters worldwide. The annual summits provide a platform for clusters to connect, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for growth and partnerships. During the 2022 summit, the desire for more frequent exchange amongst clusters was a key point of discussion, giving birth to the idea of formalising a Global Aerospace Cluster Partnership.

    Through international collaboration, the GACP aims to address common challenges and explore innovative solutions to drive growth, sustainability, and competitiveness across the aerospace sector. For AAIS members, being part of GACP now enables us to facilitate more international business connections for you.

     

     

     

  • AAIS New Members’ Night 2023

    AAIS held our second annual New Members’ Night on 7 June 2023 at the Singapore Island Country Club. The event was held to welcome new corporate members that had joined AAIS during the past year.

    The warm glow of the sunset over the golf course provided the perfect backdrop, as we sat down to drinks and a great dinner amongst friends old and new.

    The programme commenced with the introduction of the AAIS Management Committee to new members. During dinner, AAIS President Mr Wong Yue Jeen warmly welcomed our new members, highlighting the work of the Association and importance of collaboration amongst members on topics like safety, quality, and transformation.

    It was an enjoyable evening for all, as new connections were made over dinner and drinks. We thank all participants for their attendance and look forward to meeting again at our upcoming events!

  • Italy’s CUOA Business School Study Tour

    AAIS had the pleasure of cooperating with the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Singapore to host the CUOA Business School Study Tour at Seletar Aerospace Park on 31 May 2023. The delegation was led by Professor Andrea Vinelli and comprised senior executives of Italian businesses attending the business school. We thank all participants for the interesting, lively and wide-ranging discussion about sustainability and SAF, digitalisation, the space industry, transboundary haze cooperation, etc.

  • 3rd ASEAN Sustainability Forum

    The 3rd ASEAN Sustainability Forum, was held on 17 May 2023 on the sidelines of the ASEAN Air Transport Working Group’s meeting in Singapore. The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore’s Chief Sustainability Officer Daniel Ng chaired the forum with speakers from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Federal Aviation Administration, European Union Aviation Safety Agency, Airbus, Singapore Airlines, and Malaysia Aviation Group. AAIS was privileged to support the event and facilitate industry attendance both in-person and online.

    Participants learnt about how the various regulators were facilitating SAF adoption, including policymaking and planning for decarbonisation (e.g. SAF mandates and incentives), supply chain (e.g. pilot and “experimental” projects) and infrastructure. Airbus’ Asia Pacific President, Anand Stanley, spoke of the company’s efforts to address sustainability across the three ‘scopes’ and how it was developing aircraft technologies for the future. Chen Fook Ping (Singapore Airlines) and Philip See (Malaysia Aviation Group) shared the airline perspective on achieving net zero.

    We look forward to the next Sustainability Forum in Oct 2023.

  • AAIS Annual Bowling Tournament 2023

    The aerospace community had an exciting and fun-filled day as they gathered once again for the highly-anticipated AAIS Annual Bowling Tournament held on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at  Orchid Bowl @ Orchid Country Club. The event was filled with excitement, fun, and a vibrant atmosphere as 34 teams from the industry engaged in friendly competition. Bowlers vied for the prestigious championship trophy while winning prizes in novelty games, adding to the overall thrill of the day.

    Our warmest congratulations to the champion and second runner-up teams from Singapore Aero Engine Services (Asia) Pte Ltd as well as the team from SIA Engineering Company who came in as the first runner-up. Our appreciation goes out to Iain Rodger, Managing Director of GE; Oliver Chamberlain, AAIS Management Committee member; and Ekkehard Pracht, AAIS Assistant Secretary, for presenting the awards to the deserving winners.

    We also thank the aerospace community for their enthusiastic participation in this fantastic corporate team-building event! We look forward to many more memorable gatherings and activities in the months ahead!

    Here are the winning teams and bowlers!

    Team Prizes Company/ Team Name Score
    Team Champion Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd/ SAESL 1
    1st Runner-up SIA Engineering Company Ltd/ The Backup
    2nd Runner-up Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd/ SAESL 2
    Individual Prizes Name/ Company Score
    Best Male Overall Mr Thanagavelu Mohan Kumar/ SafranLS Team 1
    Best Female Overall Ms Char An Qi/ SAESL 1

    AAIS TOURNAMENT 2023 TEAM RESULT

    AAIS TOURNAMENT 2023 INDIVIDUAL RESULT

    View more photos from the event

     

  • How Budget 2023 impacts business

     

    AAIS members spent an interesting morning with Ms Tan Bin Eng (Asean Business Incentives Advisory Leader) and Mr Johanes Candra (Partner, Business Incentives Advisory) of EY LLP. The session organised on 10 May 2023 gathered business leaders and tax/finance professionals to learn about the latest from Singapore’s Budget.

    Part 1 focused on the Enterprise Innovation Scheme meant to encourage businesses to engage in R&D, innovation and capability development activities. This was followed by a Q&A session, where participants shared their comments and views on the qualifying criteria for the Enterprise Innovation Scheme.

    Part 2 discussed BEPS Pillar 2, Global Anti-Base Erosion (GloBE) rules and Domestic Top-Up Tax of 15%. Singapore will implement these from financial years 1 January 2025 onwards. The session concluded with an interactive Q&A session where participants and speakers engaged in insightful discussions on the impacts and considerations of the BEPS Pillar 2 policy.

  • Unmanned Systems Asia 2023

    The Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) (AAIS) organised the Singapore Pavilion at Rotorcraft and Unmanned Systems Asia (RCA-UMSA) 2023, held from 3rd to 5th May at the Changi Exhibition Centre. The Singapore Pavilion featured six innovative Singaporean companies, each showcasing their diverse range of technologies and groundbreaking solutions.

    RCA-UMSA 2023, co-located with IMDEX Asia and organised by Experia Events, provided a dynamic platform for thought-provoking discussions, start-up pitching sessions, and an impressive unmanned technology showcase. During the Mobility Forum, several noteworthy points were raised by industry leaders. For instance, it was projected that the entire process of developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, from inception to commercialisation, would likely span around 12 years, with profitability anticipated to be achieved only after 2035. Furthermore, industry experts predicted that original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) would potentially merge to consolidate funding and foster the growth of the sector. Another significant insight highlighted the expectation that drone deliveries would primarily focus on middle-mile deliveries, rather than final-mile deliveries.

    Within the Singapore Pavilion, an impressive array of cutting-edge technologies was on display. These included unmanned traffic management (UTM) and UAS mission systems, additive manufacturing, precision engineering, composites for aerospace and unmanned systems, autonomous driving technologies, and deep-tech Robot as a Service (RaaS) solutions, among others.

    SINGAPORE PAVILION EXHIBITORS

    • Chemtron Pte Ltd
    • Creatz3D Pte Ltd
    • Flare Dynamics Pte Ltd
    • Heron AirBridge Pte Ltd
    • MooVita Pte Ltd
    • Weston Robot Pte Ltd

     

    For more in-depth information about the exhibitors and their offerings, the Singapore Pavilion Exhibitor Guide provides comprehensive details.

     

  • MRO Americas 2023 – Atlanta, Georgia

    AAIS recently mounted a successful business mission with five Singapore companies to Atlanta, Georgia to participate in the MRO Americas exhibition. The pavilion, organised and managed by AAIS comprised of AMS Decision Pte Ltd, Cosmology Pte Ltd, Prime Aerospace GroupSP Manufacturing Pte Ltd., and VBC Group.

    MRO Americas 2023 was held from 18th to 20th April in Atlanta, Georgia (USA). The show is considered one of the largest aviation maintenance conferences in the world, attracting thousands of industry professionals and buyers each year. Participation in the event allowed us to gain valuable insights into the latest industry trends and developments and showcase the strength and diversity of Singapore’s aerospace industry.

    We are pleased to facilitate our member companies in their international business efforts and look forward to opportunities to showcase their capabilities and connect with global partners.

    To find out more about their services and offerings, see more on the SG Exhibitors at MRO Americas 2023.

     

  • Aerospace Day 2023
    The last Aerospace Day in 2021 was held virtually due to the pandemic. This year, Aerospace Day 2023 was back in full swing. Organised by AAIS, JTC, the 5 Polytechnics, ITE and e2i, the 4th Aerospace Day was held on 19 April 2023 at Seletar Aerospace Park.
    In the morning, over 1,100 polytechnic and ITE students were bussed down to Seletar Aerospace Park to begin a day of fun and excitement. Throughout the day, students were engaged in myriad activities ranging from career exhibition and talks, to workshops, and company visits. They also took part in an on-site amazing race and interacted with various companies through the race challenges. The day ended with a lucky draw, where winners walked away with attractive prizes like aircraft models sponsored by participating companies.

    Throughout the years, Aerospace Day continues to provide an excellent platform for companies to engage with the students and vice-versa. Interactions with industry professionals give students a quick sense of the industry and a sneak peek to what their future careers could be like, encouraging them to stay on in the industry that they are studying for.

    AAIS would like to thank all participating companies for an enriching and successful Aerospace Day 2023.

    Companies participating in Aerospace Day 2023:

    • Airbus Singapore
    • Avimac Pte Ltd
    • Barnes Aerospace
    • Bell Textron Asia (Pte) Ltd
    • Bombardier Aerospace Services Singapore Pte Ltd
    • Coway Engineering & Marketing Pte Ltd
    • Fokker Services Asia Pte Ltd
    • GE Aviation, Engine Services Pte Ltd
    • Liebherr-Singapore Pte Ltd
    • Matcor Technology & Services Pte Ltd
    • Moog Aircraft Services Asia Pte Ltd
    • Pratt & Whitney Singapore
    • RLC Group (Singapore) Pte Ltd
    • Rolls-Royce Singapore Pte Ltd
    • Safran Group
    • SIA Engineering Company Ltd
    • Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd (SAESL)
    • Singapore Aero Support Services Pte Ltd
    • Singapore Component Solutions Pte Ltd
    • Skyports Deliveries Pte Ltd
    • ST Engineering
    • Thales Solution Asia Pte Ltd
    • Wah Son Engineering Pte Ltd
  • Asia Pacific Summit for Aviation Safety 2023

    The Asia Pacific Summit for Aviation Safety (AP-SAS) 2023 was held from 22 to 24 Mar 2023 at Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore. Over three days, some 450 senior leaders and aviation professionals from regulators, airlines, aircraft manufacturers, maintenance organisations, air navigation service providers and aerodrome operators from across the Asia Pacific region came together to discuss aviation safety challenges and initiatives. AP-SAS 2023 was organised by the Flight Safety Foundation and Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, as a relaunching of the Singapore Aviation Safety Seminar, which, prior to the pandemic, had been held annually since 2015.

    Minister S. Iswaran delivers his opening address at AP-SAS 2023

    A highlight of the event was the announcement that the Flight Safety Foundation was setting up a new Asia Pacific Centre for Aviation Safety in Singapore to help aviation stakeholders in the Asia-Pacific region raise safety standards and capabilities to restart and ramp up operations safely as air travel recovers to pre-pandemic levels. The establishment of the Centre was announced by Mr. S. Iswaran, Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Minister-in-charge of Trade relations at the opening of AP-SAS 2023.

    For a start, the Centre will work on three key projects in 2023:
    (1) Regional Safety Assessment.
    (2) Safety Culture Leadership.
    (3) Pilot Competency and Training Capabilities.

    Workshop on Procedural Drift and its Effects

    Workshop on ‘Leveraging Predictive Maintenance Regimes’

    AP-SAS featured three tracks: Air Navigation Services/Aerodrome, Flight Operations and Engineering. AAIS Chief Executive, as a member of the AP-SAS Programme Development Committee, had the pleasure of chairing the Engineering track and summarising the discussions, at the Wrap Up session on Day Three. The two Engineering workshops on ‘Procedural Drift and its Effects’ and ‘Leveraging the Predictive Maintenance Regime’ featured speakers representing Airlines, OEMs and MROs – Singapore Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Air France, ST Engineering Commercial Aerospace, Lufthansa Technik, Boeing and Rolls-Royce.

     

  • Inaugural Drones Asia 2023

    The Singapore UAS Community by AAIS was a supporting partner of the inaugural Drones Asia 2023 exhibition held from 15 to 16 Mar at Sands Expo and Convention Centre.

    Launch of Drones Asia 2023

    AAIS Chief Executive delivered the Welcome Address at the Opening Ceremony and launched the event alongside Drones Asia Co-founder Mr Rupert Owen and gold sponsor Inmarsat, represented by Ms Lee Siu Min.

    Meetings held at our booth

    We were pleased to receive a stream of visitors at our booth and held good meetings with the Malaysian and Indonesian civil aviation authorities, MRANTI, Invest Northern Ireland, Invest Selangor and industry delegates.

    Panel on the use of drones in construction and management of key assets

    The UAV Innovation Theatre at Drones Asia drew speakers from major regional organisations such as Petronas, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand and Sime Darby Plantations, besides many other excellent speakers from across the region and Singapore.

    UAS Community networking at Inmarsat booth

    The first day of the show was capped with a joint networking event between the UAS Community and Inmarsat. This was held in conjunction with the launch of its Velaris service in Singapore. We congratulate our members, Inmarsat and Heron AirBridge, on their announcement of a new partnership. This will enable Heron AirBridge and Inmarsat to combine their capabilities and showcase how satellite-based technology can support the safe integration of unmanned aircraft into Singapore’s commercial airspace.

    We thank Montgomery Asia and AAIS member Inmarsat for their partnership.

     

  • APAQG Council Meeting and Supplier Forum – Singapore
    The Singapore Aerospace Quality Group (SAQG) by AAIS was pleased to support the hybrid Asia-Pacific Aerospace Quality Group (APAQG) Council Meeting – Spring 2023 in Singapore from 8 to 10 March 2023. We were delighted to welcome APAQG members from China, India, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand.

     

     

    This was the first APAQG meeting and Supplier Forum with an in-person session since the pandemic. Close to 70 aerospace quality engineers/managers and certification body representatives took the opportunity to discuss the latest 91XX updates, changes, and resources while networking with counterparts from across the region.

     

     

    We express our gratitude to the various APAQG sector lead and program leads for sharing their expertise at the Supplier Forum organised by APAQG and SAQG on 10 March 2023:
    • Mr Suguru Watanabe, APAQG Sector Leader
    • Mr Tatsuya Shirai, Manager Quality Planning Section, Kawasaki Heavy Industries
    • Mr Hiroshi Shuto, Manager Quality Department, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
    • Mr Zuozheng Lou, Business Management System Manager, Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC)
    • Mr Mani Rathinam Rajamani, Manager – Corporate Quality Engineering, TATA Advanced Systems Ltd
    • Mr Jun Nishiguchi, Quality Manager, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

    Reach out to us at to be part of our growing network of aerospace quality professionals.

     

  • Inter airport Southeast Asia 2023

    After a long hiatus due to the pandemic, AAIS was excited to launch our maiden participation in inter airport Southeast Asia on 1-3 March 2023. Preparations began much earlier with an official kick-off in November 2022 at our seminar on ‘Developing a Sustainable Air Hub in Singapore’. The event featured Chief Sustainability Officer at CAAS, Mr Daniel Ng and SATS’ Head of Sustainability, Ms Tan Yen Ling.

    Official kick-off at AAIS seminar, ‘Developing a Sustainable Air Hub in Singapore’ with CAAS’ and SATS’ sustainability chiefs, and our partner, RX

    Preparing for the inaugural Singapore Pavilion involved the usual support for the show organiser’s marketing effort, preparation of government grant applications, and approval by Enterprise Singapore of the Singapore Pavilion design and branding. We also took pains to visit exhibitors at their offices to understand their business and so prepare ourselves to  address their interests at the show. This included ensuring that key customers were invited and given the grand tour of the Pavilion during the show. This time, we were pleased to invite representatives of CAAS, CAG and RSAF to visit the Pavilion. As always, AAIS also exhibits at all our shows, to present our brand and maintain on-site support for exhibitors.

    The buzz at the Singapore Pavilion on Day 1

    EVP CAG and AAIS expert, Mr Tan Lye Teck visiting the Singapore Pavilion

    Publicity began much earlier through our communication channels – Aerospace Singapore magazine, e-newsletters, Asia Pacific Aviation Directory and social media. The release of Aerospace Singapore Vol 16 No 1 was timed to coincide with the show, with the feature on ‘Future Air Hub’ penned by AAIS member and contributor, Alton Aviation Consultancy. The magazine also contained the special supplement highlighting the Singapore Pavilion exhibitor profiles. As a media ambassador for the show we also took pre-show and on-site media interviews to boost the Singapore aviation and AAIS brands.

    Aerospace Singapore ‘Future Air Hub’ issue

    Singapore Pavilion Directory

    On-site media interviews to boost the Singapore aviation brand

    We worked with show organisers RX on curating speakers for the conference, and presenting the exhibitor exclusive on the ‘Aviation Landscape – Singapore’. AAIS also moderated the ‘In conversation with CAAS’ session on Day 1 of the conference.

    Exhibitor exclusive presented by CE AAIS

    ‘In conversation with CAAS’ with Director Aviation Industry, Ms Angela Ng

    Overall the show exceeded our expectations and we expect to be back again for a bigger and even more vibrant next edition!

     

     

     

  • Engagement with SAF Officers on Aerospace Careers

    AAIS was pleased to be invited by the Ministry of Defence of Singapore Career Transition Resource Centre to speak with Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) officers about career transition opportunities in the civil aviation and aerospace industries. The event was held at Orchard Rendezvous Hotel on 22 February 2023.

    AAIS Chief Executive Sia Kheng Yok shared the stage with speakers from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), ST Engineering and Eaton. His presentation covered an overview of the developments and future of the industry as well as resources available for officers to help them make informed decisions about career transition options. In between the sharing sessions, a networking tea break was scheduled for the SAF officers and corporate guests to connect and mingle. It was a valuable opportunity for the SAF officers to network and gather information from experienced professionals in the industry.

    AAIS thanks the Ministry of Defence of Singapore Career Transition Resource Centre for the opportunity and platform to engage with the officers.

     

  • ICAO Air Transport Regulation Panel WG3

     

    The ICAO Air Transport Regulation Panel held the inaugural meeting of its new Working Group on international unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations on 7-8 Feb 2023 in Singapore. Members of the Singapore UAS Community were invited to make presentations and participate in discussions, alongside some 30 regulators from across the globe. It was an opportunity to explore ideas on what approach should be taken in the economic regulation of international air services involving unmanned aircraft, from delivery “drones” to air taxis and eventually even pilot-less commercial aircraft. Industry was represented by AAIS, Aviation Studies Institute (Singapore University of Technology and Design), Frequentis, Heron Technology, Inmarsat Solutions, Meritus Law, Singapore Flying College, Skyports and Volocopter.

    The working group meeting concluded with a field trip coordinated by the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) College Central with the UAS Community. Participants visited the ITE hangar and learnt about the Aerospace certificate and work-study diplomas offered, and Unmanned Aircraft Training Organisation (UATO) certified pilot training programme. They were also treated to the Volocity showcase by Volocopter and a demonstration of the Heron AirBridge UAS Traffic Management (UTM) system.

     

  • CNY HOST Networking Evening

    The Singapore aerospace and UAS community came together for the first HOST Networking session of the year held on 2nd February 2023 at the Grand Mercure Roxy. With over 80 aerospace professionals in attendance, the event, held in conjunction with the Lunar New Year, was certainly a fantastic opportunity for networking and discussions.

    AAIS Chief Executive Sia Kheng Yok kicked off the evening by addressing members in attendance and highlighting important and exciting events and projects in 2023, which is the 20th anniversary of AAIS. He also took the opportunity to introduce new members of AAIS and the UAS community, as well as government agency representatives who were present at the event.

    A highlight of the evening was the customary “tossing of the salad” or Lo-Hei for good fortune which added to the festive atmosphere. The diverse mix of attendees from across the sector including academia, SMEs, MROs, suppliers, service providers, etc. provided quality networking opportunities and sparked engaging discussions. The evening came to a close on a high with a lucky draw which saw 5 lucky winners.

    We thank Workforce Singapore for co-sponsoring this event and would like to encourage members to find out more about the manpower support programmes for the aerospace industry offered by WSG, including the Career Conversion Programme for New Hires, Job Redesign, and Capability Transfer. Please refer to this deck for more information, or reach out to Sherman Tan (Sherman_Tan@wsg.gov.sg) or Marlia Isnin (Marlia_mohamed_isnin@wsg.gov.sg) from WSG for details. Thank you also to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event a success. We can’t wait to see everyone at the next HOST Networking session in May!

     

    View more photos of the event here:  https://www.aerophotoworks.com/p846968881

     

  • Aerospace Community Day 2023

    AAIS recently organised Aerospace Community Day 2023 in conjunction with the Chinese New Year as a platform for the industry and aerospace professionals to give back to the community. The event, which took place at two elderly care homes on 30 January and 1 February lifted the spirits of volunteers as well as some 470 elderly residents, including 70 seniors at St. John’s Home and 400 residents at Bright Hill Evergreen Home.

    Volunteers from the industry came together, spending heart-warming afternoons with the residents of the two homes. No effort was spared as they prepared fun-filled programmes including ‘Lohei’, interactive games (e.g Bingo, Passing the Parcel etc), and crowd-favourite sing-along sessions, creating a festive atmosphere in celebration of the CNY festivities. The residents thoroughly enjoyed the activities and showed their appreciation by participating with enthusiasm. In addition, the volunteers distributed oranges, red packets, and lunch/tea-time snacks to the elderly.

           

    This event was made possible thanks to the positive energy, compassion and collaboration of the volunteers in attendance. We received great feedback on the event and were delighted to have been able to make a positive impact on the lives of the elderly residents.

     

    AAIS would like to record our appreciation to the following groups, companies and individuals for their contributions, voluntarism and support for Aerospace Community Day 2023:

    • AAIS Management Committee members
    • Alton Aviation Consultancy Singapore Pte Ltd
    • Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd
    • Turbine Overhaul Services Pte Ltd
    • Wencor, LLC
    • Mr Michael Daniel
    • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ASIA)
    • NUS Aviation Club

    We look forward to the continued support of members to enable us to bring more of such engaging and fulfilling events to the community.

     

  • Learning Journey to Sodick Singapore Techno Centre (SSTC)

    Kicking off a host of events for the year, AAIS and Sodick Singapore Techno Centre (SSTC) organised a learning journey on 12 January 2023 for members and industry participants to learn more about advanced manufacturing capabilities for business transformation. The event received a lot of interest with over 30 participants on site.

    Before the tour, presentations on Additive Manufacturing (AM) and design freedom case studies were shared by speakers from the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), illustrating the potential of AM in future manufacturing. Then, participants were brought around SSTC’s Manufacturing Centre and its Additive Manufacturing Lab, which showcased Sodick’s latest 3D printers and machines that integrate IoT for data collection and analysis. The state-of-the-art machines and integrated systems allow SSTC to serve as a one-stop shop for solutions to increase productivity and efficiency.

    On behalf of members and participants, we thank our hosts – Sodick Singapore Techno Centre (SSTC) and the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) – for an enriching afternoon.

     

     

Events 2022
  • AAIS Year-End Networking Evening

    AAIS warmly welcomed members of the aerospace and UAS communities as well as partners to our Year-End HOST Networking evening on Thursday, 1 December 2022. The event brought out the festive spirit and marked the return of in-person HOST networking evenings for members since going virtual during the circuit breaker in 2020.

    AAIS President Wong Yue Jeen kicked off the evening with an update on industry and AAIS activities, highlighting upcoming projects in conjunction with the Association’s 20th anniversary in 2023. Simon Wayne, GM for Asia Pacific at Bombardier Singapore Service Centre – co-host of the evening, then gave a brief overview of the facility and its capabilities. Guests were invited on an exclusive tour of the centre, which boasts the first business jet paint facility in Asia-Pacific, an integrated parts depot with US$15 million in parts inventory, office and lounge facilities for Bombardier customers and full-service interiors workshop, among others.

      

    Attendees relished the opportunity to reconnect face-to-face with industry friends and get to know new faces. Some gamely participated in a special quiz, identifying and singing familiar Christmas tunes. The lovely evening came to a close with a lucky draw, which saw 3 lucky guests winning prizes, including a Bombardier aircraft model.

       

    Guests agreed that it was a fruitful, yet relaxed and fun evening. We thank everyone for joining us, Simon and his team at Bombardier Singapore Service Centre for their warm hospitality and excellent support for the event. The next HOST Networking event is scheduled for 2 February 2023. Please mark your calendars.

     

  • AAIS Annual Futsal Tournament 2022

    Even before the World Cup fever grips football fans globally, AAIS saw dramatic and nail-biting moments on the pitch at our very own AAIS Annual Futsal Tournament 2022. Held on Saturday, 19 November at the FutsalArena@Yishun, the event saw teams from organisations across the aerospace industries vying for the Championship trophy and bragging rights as the top Futsal team in the sector.

    After a two-year pause on the popular tournament, participants were ready and raring to go, enlivened by strong support from colleagues and family members on-site. The tournament saw spirited competition between teams right from the very first whistle. Ultimately, Singapore Aero Engine Services Private Limited (SAESL) emerged as champions, with Rolls-Royce Singapore and Advance Remanufacturing and Technology Centre as runners-up. Fourth place went to Pratt & Whitney Component Solutions. Our heartiest congratulations to all players, especially Mohammed Imran bin Ismail, the 2022 Tournament’s Most Valuable Player!

    We thank all players and members for their keen support, as well as everyone who attended for creating an electric atmosphere. See you at our next sporting tournament!

     

     

    View more photos from the event here: https://www.aerophotoworks.com/p878245475
    (If you are using/sharing the photos on any public platform/media, please include a credit to “Aerophotoworks for AAIS”)

     

  • AAIS Industry Safety Week

    In alignment with growing interest and emphasis on safety, the Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) organised its first AAIS Industry Safety Week from 14 to 18 November 2022. The inaugural AAIS Industry Safety Week saw over 70 organisations from aerospace, aviation and other industries participating in various activities, including seminars, webinars, and site visits for cross-learning of best practices. During the week-long event, AAIS members were encouraged to hold internal safety awareness campaigns in sync with industry peers. The Association also launched a Safety Microsite (www.aais.org.sg/safety) as a repository of resources to augment the internal efforts of members and facilitate industry sharing on safety practices.

    Making Safety Our Top Priority

    With the recovery of air travel, Singapore’s air transport workforce has been largely restored and is expected to reach 90% of pre-COVID levels by the year-end. Aerospace activities have also turned the corner with domestic aerospace production exceeding pre-pandemic levels by March 2022 and output growth recorded at over 16% higher than 2019 (baseline) levels in September. This positive sentiment is expected to continue in the coming months, with most Singapore-based aerospace companies foreseeing growth to improve in terms of output, new orders, exports, and employment.

    As the tempo of operations continues to pick up, an influx of fresh talents is expected who will need to be familiarised with safety practices and considerations. At the same time, experienced personnel will benefit from consistent refreshers to remain up-to-date and keep safety protocols top-of-mind. There are also new considerations in the post-pandemic landscape such as the upkeep of aircraft, especially those kept in storage, the introduction of new technologies as well as changes to the operating environment. In this spirit, AAIS called upon its members to renew and reiterate the commitment to safety at all levels through the inaugural AAIS Industry Safety Week.

    AAIS Safety Industry Week Activities

    i. Aviation Safety: In conversation with CAAS and Aerospace Leaders

    To kick off Safety Week, AAIS held a hybrid seminar on 14 November to discuss aviation safety in aerospace MRO and manufacturing. The event featured industry leaders including Mr Oliver Chamberlain, Manufacturing Executive, Rolls-Royce Singapore, and Mr Mark Loh, General Manager, Bell Textron Asia, as well as a representative from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), Mr Leong Chin Sing, Senior Manager (Maintenance Organisation).

    The speakers provided insightful perspectives on safety policies and implementation, as well as best practices for MRO and aerospace organisations. Particularly interesting were their personal anecdotes on the motivation for underscoring safety, as well as the differences in safety cultures across organisations and countries. The speakers noted the importance of continual improvements in safety management and called for collaborative efforts to improve aviation safety awareness. Participants engaged the speakers during the panel discussion on topics such as integrating safety in aerospace curricula, ramping up on safety training, and the role of regulators in safety management.

    ii. Visit to SIAEC’s Aviation and Workplace Safety Promotion Centres

    AAIS Management Committee members and their safety officers were invited to visit the SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC) safety promotion centres on 15 November. Participants were brought on interactive tours around the Aviation Safety Promotion Centre and the Workplace Safety Promotion Centre. These centres were established by SIAEC to augment safety training programmes for its staff with the aim of reinforcing workplace safety culture and mindset.

    Participants were impressed with the scope and quality of the Aviation Safety Centre, which included immersive media, informational displays and interactive activities. The Workplace Safety Promotion Centre also offered an integrated learning environment combining classroom-based lessons and experiential and visual learning for participants. We thank SIAEC for supporting AAIS Industry Safety Week and for hosting the visit.

    iii. Advancing WSH: New Code of Practice + Data-Driven Risk-Based Approach

    A webinar was held on 17 November to provide updates on workplace safety and health (WSH) practices. The keynote speaker was Mr Christopher Koh, General Manager of the Singapore WSH Council. He provided a briefing on a new code of practice (COP) which details duties of company CEOs and directors on WSH. The new COP, gazetted in October 2022, applies to Singapore companies in all industries, covering not only the physical but also mental well-being of workers.

    This briefing was followed by a rich presentation on ‘A Data-Driven Risk-Based Approach to WSH Management’ by Mr Lim Sui Soon, Executive Committee Member at the Singapore Institution of Safety Officers (SISO). The approach provided a new perspective, encouraging organisations to analyse key causal factors of incidents based on WSH data and develop mitigating methods in managing these high-risk factors.

    iv. Launch of AAIS Safety Microsite

    A key element of AAIS Industry Safety Week was the opportunity for cross-learning through platforms for sharing between members, industry leaders, regulators, and safety professionals. To promote knowledge/resource sharing and exchange between members of the industry ecosystem, AAIS launched a curated Safety Microsite (https://aais.org.sg/safety) in conjunction with Safety Week. The AAIS Safety Microsite serves as a repository of safety resources and includes messages by Mr Tay Tiang Guan, 1 Deputy Director-General at CAAS and Mr Wong Yu Jeen, AAIS President, as well as posters, articles, guidance documents, activities and other safety-related collaterals.

    The AAIS Safety Microsite will be available beyond Safety Week. We welcome all to visit and utilise the resources and look forward to further contribution of materials from industry members.

    v. Special Discount for AAIS Safety Training Courses

    Safety training is crucial to ensure workers have a solid knowledge of safety associated with their jobs. In conjunction with AAIS Industry Safety Week, the Association is offering a discount of 25% off training fees for a second participant for the following training courses:

    • Introduction to Safety Management System (Virtual or In-Person)
    • Effective Event Investigation Training (Virtual on In-Person)
    • Fundamentals to Aerospace Quality Management System (Virtual or In-Person)
    • Compliant Safety Management Systems for Aerospace (Virtual)
    • Logistics and Stores Inspection Procedures for Aerospace (Virtual)
    • Effective Stores Management for Aerospace (Virtual)
    • Quality Systems and Audit Management (Virtual or In-Person)
    • Human Factors and Error Management (In-Person)

    The offer is valid for any of the above-titled courses ending by or before 30 June 2023, subject to minimum class size. Quote “AAISSafety” to enjoy the discount.
    Visit our website at www.aais.org.sg for more information 

    Moving Forward Together with Safety in Mind

    The first AAIS Industry Safety Week concluded successfully with positive feedback on the activities organised. Safety is for all industries, and we were especially pleased to welcome organisations beyond the aviation and aerospace industries at the various events, including representatives from maritime, oil & gas, electronics etc.

     

  • University of St Gallen’s Aviation Management Course visits Seletar

    We welcomed our friends from the University of St Gallen’s Center for Aviation Competence once again to Seletar Aerospace Park on 3 November 2022. Seletar Aerospace Park’s industry ecosystem continues to be a draw – this time for students of the Aviation Management Compact Course.

    AAIS selectively provides guest lectures to visiting students enrolled in Masters and Executive Education courses. These provide collaborating institutions with insights into one of the world-leading Aerospace clusters and the success of Seletar Aerospace Park in attracting global investors.

     

     

     

  • Visit by European Parliament Transport Committee

    AAIS was very pleased to host a delegation of the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism on 2 November 2022 at Seletar Aerospace Park. The delegation was visiting Singapore to explore innovative solutions in the transport sector. Led by Committee Chair MEP Jens Gieseke, the delegation visited AAIS and Skyports Drone Services.  Chief Executive AAIS, and Sanjay Suresh and Koh Jia Le of Skyports briefed the delegation on the aviation and aerospace recovery, and development of drone services in Singapore.

     

     

     

  • Developing a Sustainable Air Hub in Singapore

    As Singapore steps up its green ambition towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, the aviation industry has also been shaping strategies to ensure sustainability in recovery and growth.

    AAIS was pleased to hold a briefing on 2 November on Developing a Sustainable Air Hub in Singapore, sponsored by inter airport Southeast Asia. The keynote was delivered by Mr Daniel Ng, Chief Sustainability Officer and Director (Air Transport) at the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, covering recommendations from the International Advisory Panel (IAP). [The IAP report is accessible via the following link: https://go.gov.sg/sustainableairhubsg.]

    Mr Ng shared details on the 15 initiatives and tangible pathways identified to decarbonise the aviation sector across three key domains of airport, airline and air traffic management. Participants then heard another enlightening presentation by Ms Tan Yen Ling, Head of Sustainability and Strategic Projects at SATS who shared on the sustainability practices and initiatives being rolled out internally at SATS and for clients of its ground handling and in-flight services.

    The presentations were followed by an engaging panel discussion moderated by AAIS Programme Director for Sustainability Mr Chan Mun Wei. The discussions were enlivened by questions and comments from the attendees, covering a wide range of sustainability and industry-related topics such as embedding ESG awareness across multiple functions in an organisation, positioning of Singapore as a sustainable air hub to capture the growing market for green air travel, greening of airside vehicles in the airport, and strengthening of infrastructure to adapt to climate-related risks.

    We thank all participants for their active interactions, the speakers for their generous time and sharing and our event sponsors – inter airport Southeast Asia.

    To be held from 1 to 3 March 2022, inter airport Southeast Asia is Asia’s premier airport exhibition and conference that covers all areas of airport-related technology, equipment and services, in one place. Visit www.interairport-southeastasia.com to find out more.

     

  • AAIS extends Performance Review Institute collaboration

     

    The Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) and the Performance Review Institute (PRI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 27 October 2022 at the JW Marriott Singapore South Beach. This was the 4th MOU between the parties since 2008 – adding to 14 years of collaboration in providing and promoting aerospace special processes auditing, training, and personnel qualification programmes in Singapore.

    We were also appreciative of the fruitful discussion with Mr Jay Solomond (Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer) and Ms Hannah Godfrey (Vice President of Professional Development) on the sidelines of the signing. We look forward to further development of the cooperation.

    For more information, view the PRI Press Release here: https://p-r-i.org/news/the-performance-review-institute-partnership-association-of-aerospace-industries/ 

  • AAIS 20th Annual General Meeting

    The 20th Annual General Meeting of the Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) was held on 27 October 2022 at InterContinental Singapore. This was the first physical AGM since the pandemic with members glad to be back meeting face-to-face. The AGM kicked off with Opening remarks by President, Mr Wong Yue Jeen, highlights on the past year’s activities by Honorary Secretary, Ms Lim Hee Joo, and an overview of financial performance for the past fiscal year by Assistant Honorary Treasurer, Ms Yap Siok Leng.

    In his opening address to members, AAIS President Mr Wong Yue Jeen noted that the aerospace industry had turned a corner in tandem with aviation’s recovery, with the sector operating at near or above pre-pandemic (2019) output since March 2022. Even as the outlook for the coming months remained buoyant, the industry was very mindful of the challenges looming due to the instability of the geopolitical and macroeconomic environment. Mr Wong emphasised the important role of the Association in galvanising the community for collective action and elaborated on the Association’s focus areas in the coming year encompassing Safety, Sustainability and Supplier Development.

    Members endorsed the FY2021/22 Annual Report and the audited Financial Report. Ernst & Young was reappointed as the Honorary External Auditor and Mr Paul Sandosham of Clifford Chance was reappointed as the Honorary Legal Advisor for the Association.

    At the AGM, Mr Mark Loh, General Manager of Bell Textron Asia Pte Ltd was elected as a member of the Management Committee FY2021/23. This was to fill a vacancy left by Mr Kevin Chow of Thales Solutions Asia who had stepped down from the MC in August 2022 to take up a new role overseas. Members recorded their appreciation to Mr Chow and congratulated Mr Loh on the appointment.

     

    Ms Agnes Chua from the AAIS Secretariat was presented with the service award in recognition of her 15 years of service. The AGM formalities then concluded with closing remarks from President, who provided a glimpse of the exciting activities planned for the coming year in conjunction with the Association’s 20th anniversary in 2023. President called on members for support, contributions and participation in the events and projects including a commemorative Aerospace Community Heritage Book and the Gala Dinner slated for October 2023, among others.

    In the next part of the programme, members heard informative presentations on the topics of  Sustainability, Supplier Development and Manpower. Mr Chan Mun Wei, Programme Director of Sustainability, provided an overview of the AAIS Sustainability Roadmap. This was followed by Mr Loh Wai Cheong, Senior Industry Transformation Advisor on information about the Jobs Development Partner (JDP) Programme of which AAIS is a TAC partner. Rounding off the presentations, Ms Marlia Isnin and Ms Mathia Lee from Workforce Singapore shared about WSG’s manpower findings, initiatives and programmes for the aerospace and aviation sectors.

    The informative event ended with a networking session among the guests. AAIS thanks the event sponsor, Workforce Singapore, for their forthcoming and generous support, and all members for actively participating.

     

    View all photos from the event here

     

  • EU-Asia Symposium on UAS/UAM

    Members of the Singapore UAS Community participated in and presented at the EU-Asia Symposium on UAS/UAM held at the Goodwood Park Hotel on 18-21 Oct 2022 by individual invitation of organisers, CAAS and EASA. Key points in the industry feedback to regulators on Day 1 of the symposium were:

    1. In the next 10 years, demand for UAM and BVLOS operations over populated areas will increase exponentially
    2. The cost per mile of air taxis will eventually become similar to ground transportation
    3. Reduction of cost and battery weight will be a major driver of commercial viability
    4. Public acceptance will have to be gained through respect for privacy and the natural environment
    5. Research on UAS traffic management and airspace integration is key to enabling scalable operations
    6. UTM development is underfunded and faces hurdles, including the lack of regulatory guidance
    7. Importance of global harmonisation of standards for UAS, UAM, UTM-U-Space and vertiports

    The occasion was also marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between CAAS and EASA to collaborate on urban air mobility to support the development, deployment and safe operation of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. The agreement was signed by Mr Han Kok Juan, Director-General of CAAS and Mr Luc Tytgat, Strategy and Safety Management Director, EASA on 18 October 2022, on the sidelines of the inaugural European Union–Asia Symposium on Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Urban Air Mobility.

    On the final evening of the symposium, CAAS hosted industry and regulators to a networking evening at the National Gallery, with many good conversations held over dinner and drinks.

     

  • AAIS at Industry Transformation Asia-Pacific 2022

    Themed ‘Industry 4.0 for Business Sustainability’, the 5th edition of the Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific (ITAP) was held on 18-20 October 2022 at Singapore Expo. ITAP 2022 homed into trends and developments in the three key dimensions of Digitalisation, Talent & Workforce Development, and Environmental Sustainability. AAIS exhibited at ITAP 2022 for the first time, to connect Aerospace businesses with solution providers (and vice versa) and to extend our services to the wider industry community. We are pleased to have been able to connect with visitors and exhibitors on topics such as additive manufacturing, drone services, digital transformation, advanced metrology and many other subjects.

  • Singapore Pavilion at MRO Europe 2022

    MRO Europe 2022

    AAIS coordinated the Singapore Pavilion at MRO Europe 2022, held from 18 to 20 October in London, UK. Seven companies joined us to pursue opportunities in the commercial aviation aftermarket.

    Singapore Pavilion @ MRO Europe 2022 (Booth 1611) Exhibiting Companies:

    • AMS Decision Pte Ltd
    • Aviation Partner And Consulting Pte Ltd
    • Coway Engineering & Marketing Pte Ltd
    • CW Aero Services Pte Ltd
    • KBG Contract Machining Pte Ltd
    • Prime Aerospace Pte Ltd
    • RexAdvance Technology Pte Ltd

    To learn more about the exhibiting companies, please download the brochure: Singapore Pavilion exhibitors

    MRO Europe at a glance:

    • Largest event of its kind in Europe: 7,000 attendees / 400 exhibitors
    • 3 day senior level conference with 30+ expert speakers
    • 2 day international exhibition
    • Free show floor content at the Go Live! Theater
    • Numerous networking opportunities

    Official Event Site: https://mroeurope.aviation

     

  • Industry Preview of Aerospace ITM 2025 by EDB

    The Singapore aerospace industry is turning a corner. In March 2022, aerospace production levels exceeded pre-pandemic levels for the first time on a monthly basis. Growth has continued at a steady pace, with the total aerospace output growing by 27.9% on a yield-to-date basis in the first eight months of 2022, over the same period last year.

    As the industry positions to capture opportunities, the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) has launched the Industry Transformation Map (ITM) 2025 which aims to cement Singapore’s position as a global node for aerospace manufacturing and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities, with leadership in engine MRO. It also aims to pave the way for participation in future aircraft development programmes through emerging areas. An update from the previous iteration (ITM 2020), Aerospace ITM 2025 addresses the systemic shifts arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting key strategies and initiatives to support the industry in recovery and beyond.

    AAIS was pleased to organise an industry preview of the refreshed Aerospace ITM on 10 October 2022. Held at Seletar Aerospace Park, the preview was attended by representatives from across the industry, government agencies and academia. Mr Abiel Neo, Assistant Vice President, Capital Goods at EDB delivered a comprehensive briefing on the ITM, sharing its target for the aerospace industry to achieve S$4.6 billion in Value-Add (VA) by 2025, and restoring total employment of the industry to pre-pandemic levels of 22,000 by adding 3,000 jobs. This would be driven by capability and capacity building for manufacturing and MRO, with a focus on strengthening our leadership position in engine MRO.

    Under the ITM, agencies will partner with aerospace companies, AAIS and relevant organisation in the following key areas:

    • Driving transformation through technology
    • Helping SMEs fly high on the global stage
    • Investing in talent
    • Gearing up for sustainability and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)
    • Emerging stronger through tripartism and partnerships with Industry Associations

    Following the ITM briefing, participants engaged with a panel consisting Mr Neo, Mr Wilin Ng, Chief Commercial Officer at SIA Engineering Company Ltd and moderator Dr Kenneth Low, Deputy Cluster Director of Singapore Institute of Technology. The panel took questions from the audience and had robust discussions on the new strategies, initiatives and shaping the future of the Singapore aerospace industry. Participants also heard from AAIS President, Wong Yue Jeen, who shared on the role of the Association in supporting priority areas for members.

    All present took the opportunity to network during the coffee break and reception. AAIS thanks all speakers and industry representatives for a very engaging session. For more information on the ITM, please refer to the EDB press release.

       
       

    View all photos from the event

     

  • Visit by delegation from Can Tho City, Vietnam

    AAIS was pleased to welcome a delegation from Can Tho City, Vietnam, to Seletar Aerospace Park on 13 October 2022. The delegation was led by the Chairman of the Can Tho People’s Committee, Mr Tran Viet Truong and facilitated by Ingrid International.

    Following an exchange of presentations and discussion on the promotion of  Can Tho City, an MOU was signed between Mrs Nguyen Thi Kieu Duyen, Director of Can Tho Promotion Agency and Mr Tan Chye Kin, Chairman of Ingrid International.

     

     

  • Singapore UAS Community Networking

    The Singapore UAS Community was excited to hold its first in-person networking event on 4 October 2022 at Brewerkz, Orchard Rendezvous Hotel. Organised in partnership with Montgomery Asia and Drones Asia 2023, the event attracted more than 40 participants. We were also delighted and honoured to welcome senior management of Montgomery Group and Montgomery Asia, and officers from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and Enterprise Singapore.

    Following great conversations and bonding with new friends over beer and bites, we capped the evening with a lucky draw graced by Mr Rupert Owen, co-founder of GeoConnect Asia and Drones Asia. 3 of our lucky members each won either a bottle of wine (courtesy of AAIS) or a Drone Security course bundle (compliments of DroneSec).

            

    View more photos from the event here

  • Visit by Incheon Metropolitan City Maritime Affairs and Aviation Bureau

    AAIS was pleased to receive a delegation of the Incheon Metropolitan City Maritime Affairs and Aviation Bureau on 26 September 2022. Led by Director General Hyun-Mo Yoon and facilitated by Starburst, the team also included the Incheon Industry-Academy Collaboration Institute.

    The meeting saw a useful exchange on the latest industry developments in aerospace and the emerging UAM/AAM sector. As both Incheon and Singapore share similarities as maritime and aviation hubs, the discussion considered various possibilities for benchmarking, information exchange and cooperation.

  • Advanced Manufacturing Learning Journey

    Advanced manufacturing has become a key industry buzzword as companies seek to undergo transformation with the aim of developing better capabilities, adaptivity and productivity along the supply chain.

    An Advanced Manufacturing Learning Journey (AMLJ), held on 23 September 2022, was organised by AAIS to provide members and industry participants an opportunity to experience the transformative possibilities of advanced manufacturing technologies.

    Located within Singapore Polytechnic, the AMLJ co-developed by SP and TÜV SÜD, brought participants on an interactive tour through 3 distinct zones – namely the Digitalisation, Integrated, and Smart zones. Through the learning journey, a host of solutions were shared, including automation, sensors and IOT, and decision-making tools to increase productivity on the shop floor. The learning journey also included presentations covering success stories of digital transformation on shopfloors, inspiring participants to kickstart their own transformation processes.

    On behalf of members and participants, we thank our hosts -ASTech, Smart i4.0 Transformation Alliance (SiTA) and Singapore Polytechnic (SP) – for a constructive afternoon.

     

  • MRO Asia-Pacific 2022

    After a two-year hiatus, MRO Asia-Pacific 2022 returned with a bang from 20 to 22 September at Singapore Expo Halls 3 and 4. The region’s premier event for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul hosted over 180 exhibiting companies showcasing their latest products, services and solutions.

    AAIS were pleased to coordinate the Singapore Pavilion, which housed 27 exhibiting companies showcasing a diverse range of capabilities including aircraft ground support, components, distribution of aircraft parts and equipment, inspection and testing, MRO services etc. During the exhibition, the Singapore Pavilion attracted many visitors, potential partners and customers as fruitful discussions were observed at various booths.

    AAIS also organised a casual networking session at the Singapore pavilion on Wednesday, 21 September. The session brought together exhibitors, AAIS members and partners as connections were established and discussions deepened over drinks in a convivial atmosphere.

    Exhibitors were unanimous in noticing the high number and quality of trade visitors from airlines, MROs and other industry stakeholders. The show ended with the usual remarks that it was simply too short a time for all the opportunities that arose.

    We thank our exhibitors, members, partners and guests for 3 great days at MRO Asia Pacific, 2 days of exhibition, and 1 clear signal that Aerospace is back in business.