On April 15, 2024, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) announced plans to establish a centralized air traffic control centre that will integrate air traffic controllers, data scientists, and meteorological experts. This initiative aims to improve flight management in Singapore as global air passenger traffic continues to rise following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Senior Minister of State for Transport, Amy Khor, revealed the plans during the opening of the 63rd International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) annual conference. The new centre will foster collaboration among professionals from various fields, enabling the exchange of ideas to enhance decision-making processes for air traffic controllers.

Dr. Khor emphasized the importance of innovating to develop a global vision of an integrated and interoperable air traffic management (ATM) system, particularly as the Asia-Pacific region is expected to experience the fastest growth in air travel over the next two decades. While specific details about the centre’s timeline and operational aspects were not disclosed, it will serve as a test-bed for advancing air traffic management strategies.

The complexity of airspace management is anticipated to increase with the introduction of new operational concepts and unmanned aircraft, necessitating new tools and skillsets for air traffic controllers. Additionally, in May, CAAS plans to publish a safety culture handbook applicable to various aviation professionals, including controllers, pilots, and engineers. This handbook will explore factors influencing safety culture and offer practical guidance based on a survey conducted among over 10,000 aviation workers.

Dr. Khor highlighted the significance of cultivating a positive safety culture, fostering innovation, and attracting talent to prepare the air traffic management sector for the anticipated increase in air traffic. She commended the dedication and professionalism of air traffic controllers during the pandemic, stressing that human expertise remains irreplaceable by technology, especially amid current geopolitical tensions affecting international flights.

IFATCA president Duncan Auld acknowledged the challenges in attracting new talent to the profession, emphasizing the need to hire a diverse range of controllers to ensure long-term resilience as the role evolves with technological advancements.