Singapore plans Centre of Excellence to enhance air traffic control

THE development of Singapore as a Centre of Excellence for Air Traffic Management (ATM) has received strong support from the aviation industry, said the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).

As a centre for air control, Singapore will host a range of air traffic management (ATM) entities conducting research and development of new concepts, technologies and solutions for Singapore and the Asia-Pacific region at a cost of S$200 million (US$163.7 million) over the next 10 years.

These concepts, technologies and solutions are aimed at achieving greater capacity and maintain a high level of safety and service as air traffic increases. They include maximising airspace capacity and well as optimising airborne and ground operations.

Said CAAS director-general Yap Ong Heng: "The convergence of key aviation stakeholders working together on ATM R&D, test-bedding and validation in Singapore will bring new and innovative solutions that will support the growth in air traffic in Singapore and the Asia-Pacific region."

CAAS and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) are now in advanced talks on establishing an ATM research institute in Singapore. The partnership will also include developing high quality personnel capital that is required to support the Centre of Excellence for ATM.

"A fast-rising research-intensive university, NTU is contributing its research expertise through the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, one of the world's largest mechanical engineering schools. The school's faculty is currently working on research projects related to human factors in air traffic control and ATM." the CAAS statement said.