Singapore maintains top aviation safety as APAC risks rise

Regional accident rate doubled whilst Singapore reported no major accidents in 2025.

Singapore, which handled 70 million passenger movements and over 2 million tonnes of cargo in 2025, maintained a 99.7% score in the International Civil Aviation Organization audit programme, well above the global average of 69.1%, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).

At the same time, CAAS said aviation risks in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region have increased significantly, with the accident rate rising to 1.62 per million departures in 2024 from 0.78 in 2023. Fatalities also increased to 186 from 72 over the same period.

Speaking at the Aviation Safety Forum 2026 on 20 May, CAAS Director-General Han Kok Juan said the region is facing a more challenging safety environment as air traffic grows and operating conditions become more volatile.

He added that turbulence remains the leading cause of accidents in the region and is expected to increase further due to climate-related weather patterns.

CAAS also noted that runway incursions in Singapore rose to three in 2025 from zero in 2023, even as overall safety performance remains strong.

The regulator said all such incidents are investigated regardless of collision risk to strengthen operating procedures.

Han highlighted additional risks linked to the Middle East conflict, including longer flight routes, higher fuel burn, and operational pressure on airlines managing rerouted services.

CAAS said it is implementing its 2025–2027 National Aviation Safety Plan, which includes 45 measures covering turbulence forecasting, runway safety and broader risk management.

The regulator also said it is enhancing data sharing on turbulence, conducting runway safety reviews, and monitoring fuel-related incidents involving airlines operating into Singapore.

CAAS also said it is investing in workforce development initiatives, including a $2.6m early-career mentorship programme with NTUC to support 2,200 aviation workers over five years ahead of future capacity expansion at Changi Airport Terminal 5.

In a separate statement, CAAS said its latest aviation safety culture survey found 77% of respondents view the sector positively, up from 73% in 2023. The survey covered about 5,000 aviation personnel across 400 organisations.

CAAS said it will continue working with industry stakeholders to strengthen safety systems as air traffic continues to grow.

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Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore

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