Singapore to expand air traffic control workforce by 40% with S$20,000 sign-on bonus; $3.1B investment planned for modernization

To meet rising air travel demand, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) will expand its air traffic control workforce by 40% over the next decade, increasing the number of controllers from 500 to 700 by the mid-2030s. This initiative is part of a broader S$4 billion (US$3.1 billion) investment in air navigation services over the next 15 years.⁵⁶

To attract new talent, CAAS has introduced a S$20,000 sign-on bonus for recruits, effective since June 1. This bonus is in addition to a competitive salary structure, with fresh graduates earning around S$64,000 annually and diploma holders starting at S$49,000. After obtaining their licenses, officers can earn up to S$120,000 with five years of experience.³⁴

CAAS manages approximately 2,000 flights daily, including 1,000 into and out of Changi Airport. With air passenger volume projected to nearly triple in the next 25 years, CAAS is also launching initiatives like a new undergraduate degree in air traffic control and an air traffic control management associate program to further bolster recruitment efforts.

Of the total investment, S$500 million will specifically enhance the workforce, while S$3.2 billion will upgrade systems and infrastructure. Additionally, S$300 million will focus on developing new technologies to optimize air traffic management and mitigate adverse weather impacts.