This was the guiding question at the seminar, “The Path Forward: EASA, ASTAR and Industry on AI-Driven Transformation”, co-organised by AAIS and NTUC Aerospace & Aviation Cluster on 2 July.
Building on the strong response to AAIS’ AI seminar in March, the event brought together aerospace professionals, researchers, regulators and technology providers to explore the practical realities of implementing AI in the stringent safety, regulatory and operational requirements of aviation. The event once again drew a strong turnout, with more than 100 participants filling the venue, underscoring the industry’s strong interest in this subject matter.
The seminar opened with presentations by representatives from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Ms Inês Berlenga, Project Manager for AI Ethics, and Mr François Triboulet, Project Manager for AI Assurance. They outlined EASA’s approach to enabling the safe and responsible deployment of AI. There was a very useful sharing of governance frameworks, risk-based assurance methodologies and regulatory guidance. The experts also engaged with participants, discussing safe and trusted implementation, human oversight and collaboration between regulators and industry to foster trust as AI capabilities continue to mature.
Participants then heard from Mr Nelson Low, Director of the Singapore Aerospace Programme at ASTAR, who shared how the institution is working closely with industry to harness AI technologies to address operational challenges within aerospace MRO. Drawing on examples from ongoing research and industry collaborations, he highlighted AI-enabled solutions to improve productivity, optimise maintenance processes and strengthen decision-making. He called on industry to work closely with ASTAR to co-develop user-centric AI solutions that address real operational needs.
There was also a sharing by solution providers actively supporting digital transformation initiatives. Mr Biju Alex Thomas, Operations Director of Emage Vision, showcased how intelligent imaging can modernise legacy industrial processes and improve operational efficiency. Mr Jeremy Ang, Co-Founder and CEO of Axium Industries Group, shared his experiences developing agentic AI solutions for supply chain operations.
Following the presentations, participants took part in facilitated table discussions to exchange perspectives on the opportunities and challenges of AI adoption within their own organisations. These conversations provided valuable feedback on the industry’s AI maturity, implementation priorities and areas where further collaboration and capability building could support the sector’s digital transformation journey.
These conversations carried into a highlight of the seminar – a panel discussion moderated by Mr Tay Gek Peng, Founding Director of Grounded Practice and former Chief Digitalisation Officer of the Republic of Singapore Air Force. Joined by Mr Arthur Wee, Director of Manufacturing Engineering & Development at Collins Aerospace, together with returning speakers from EASA, A*STAR and Emage Vision, the panel explored the realities of implementing AI in aerospace, covering topics ranging from governance and workforce readiness to data quality, organisational change and return on investment.
Salient Discussion Points
- Harnessing Data Effectively: Rather than rushing to adopt AI for fear of missing out, participants agreed that meaningful AI outcomes depend on the quality of underlying data. In a live poll conducted during the seminar, participants identified data as the biggest challenge to implementing AI at scale. The industry’s emphasis on getting the data layer right reflects a mature understanding that AI is only as effective as the information it is built upon.
- The Tension Between Innovation and Compliance: For aerospace MRO, the challenge is not whether AI should be adopted, but how to do so within a highly regulated, safety-critical environment. Discussions explored how organisations can reconcile the need to innovate while maintaining the rigorous assurance and compliance standards expected by regulators and customers.One practical approach suggested by the speakers was to think evolution, not revolution. Organisations need not wait until every piece of infrastructure is AI-ready before embarking on their AI journey. Instead, companies were encouraged to begin with targeted, lower-risk use cases that do not rely on large, integrated datasets, such as AI-powered imaging and visual inspection, before progressively scaling to more complex applications as capabilities mature and regulatory frameworks continue to evolve.
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AI should augment human expertise, not replace it: While AI can significantly improve areas such as analysis, pattern recognition and decision support, aerospace MRO will remain fundamentally human-centred. Safety- and security-critical decisions continue to require engineering judgement, with AI serving as an enabler for better and more informed decision-making.
Successful implementation depends on bringing together people who understand both operational realities and digital technologies. Capturing years of engineering know-how and “tribal knowledge”, and translating these into user-centric AI solutions, will require close collaboration between domain experts, business leaders, researchers and technologists.
Overall, the session reflected the Singapore aerospace community’s optimistic yet measured approach to AI adoption, with a shared recognition that successful implementation will depend on a clear vision, strong data and cybersecurity foundations, close collaboration in technology and solutions development, and responsible governance.
AAIS extends its sincere appreciation to our co-organiser, the NTUC Aerospace & Aviation Cluster, for hosting the event at the NTUC Centre, as well as our supporting partners, e2i and JTC Corporation, for their support. We also thank our speakers, panellists, facilitators, and participants for generously sharing expertise and contributing to the engaging discussions throughout the afternoon.
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On 11 June 2026, AAIS hosted its annual New Members’ Night at Orchard Hotel Singapore, bringing together key representatives from new corporate members and the Management Committee. The gathering provides a platform for leaders across Singapore’s aerospace ecosystem to engage in an evening of connection, conversation, and community-building.
The evening was kicked off by AAIS Chief Executive, Mr Chew Hwee Yong, who introduced newly joined members and shared updates on talent development initiatives, including the Career Conversion Programme, an initiative supported by Workforce Singapore. AAIS President, Mr Wong Yue Jeen, also addressed and welcomed members during dinner, sharing the association’s roles, key initiatives, and plans for the year.
During dinner, members exchanged ideas, explored potential partnerships, and discussed opportunities for collaboration. The meaningful conversations touched on opportunities to strengthen the ecosystem and shared commitment to the growth and development of Singapore’s aerospace community.
Once again, a warm welcome to all our new members — we are excited to have you as part of the AAIS community. We look forward to creating more meaningful engagement and opportunities with members in their membership journey.
View more event photos here (gallery will be updated progressively): Aerophotoworks for AAIS
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The delegation was led by Mr Yasuo Kawahara, Director General, Airport Affairs of the Port and Harbor Bureau of the Kobe City Government, and included three other senior representatives from the Kobe City Government, including Mr Yasunari Hamabata, Director, Airport Island Infrastructure Development, Airport Island Investment, Development Division, Mr Yoshiyuki Kasahara, Executive Director, Airport Strategy and Development Department and Mr Nakazawa Hisashi, Kobe Trade Information Office Singapore.
Located approximately 30 minutes from Osaka, Kobe is the capital of Hyōgo Prefecture and serves as a major port city. In 2025, Kobe Airport officially commenced international operations following the opening of its new Terminal 2, marking a significant milestone in the city’s aerospace development ambitions. With Kobe Airport recently attaining international status and the city looking to develop its aerospace industry, the delegation was keen to learn about the development of Singapore’s aerospace ecosystem and industry development initiatives.
During the meeting, AAIS Senior Advisor shared insights into the development of Singapore’s aerospace sector, highlighting the role of government-industry collaboration, key anchor companies and long-term industry development initiatives aimed at promoting growth of the aerospace cluster. Discussions also covered talent development programmes, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) developments and the complementary roles of Changi Airport and Seletar Airport within Singapore’s aerospace landscape.
Areas for collaboration between Singapore and Kobe were also explored during the meeting. With Kobe’s strong industrial and manufacturing base, notably in robotics and automation, both sides discussed potential collaboration opportunities in smart airport operations and aerospace SME partnerships.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing mutual interest in maintaining dialogue and exploring potential areas of collaboration between Singapore and Kobe.
]]>Part of Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) organised by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Informa, SatelliteAsia is one of the region’s leading gatherings for the satellite and space communications community, bringing together global providers, technology leaders, policymakers, and end-users to explore the latest developments shaping the sector.
It was a fruitful week for the Association. Through our exhibition booth at SatelliteAsia, we engaged with global companies and stakeholders. We were pleased to share about Singapore’s growing space ecosystem, as well as the opportunities for collaboration and exchange.
Visitors also picked up copies of the Singapore Space Industry Directory 2025–2026, in its second print run due to strong industry demand, alongside the latest issue of Aerospace Singapore magazine, which features a special focus on the rapidly expanding space ecosystem across the Asia-Pacific region.
AAIS was also glad to support a roundtable session organised by Space Faculty, which brought together students and industry professionals, with Estella Teh, Assistant Manager (Membership & Communications), sharing her insights and experiences with student participants. It was the perfect platform for exchanging experiences and discussing career opportunities in the emerging commercial space sector.
Beyond the exhibition floor, the week provided valuable opportunities to strengthen international connections. We were pleased to meet visiting delegations and industry leaders, including Mr DS Govindrajan, Board member of SatCom Industry Association (SIA-India), who shared developments on the newly established Centre of Excellence for Space Technology in Bangalore, India. The initiative by the Karnataka state government aims to support startup incubation, research and innovation, skills development, academia-industry collaboration, and international partnerships in both upstream and downstream space technology segments.
AAIS was also pleased to support the ATxSG Canada networking event featuring companies from Quebec, Alberta, and Ontario. During the event, AAIS Chief Executive Mr Chew Hwee Yong delivered a keynote with insights on Singapore’s growing space and technology ecosystem, while reaffirming the importance of international collaboration in advancing innovation and industry growth. He also recognised Canada’s significant contributions to space exploration, including its participation in the Artemis II mission. The event facilitated meaningful exchanges between Canadian and Singapore stakeholders on emerging opportunities and developments across the global space economy.
We look forward to continue connecting local and international stakeholders, fostering partnerships, and supporting the development of a vibrant and globally connected aerospace and space community.
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Co-organised by Novaspace and the Global Satellite Operators Association (GSOA), the forum built on the legacy of the Asia Video Industry Association’s (AVIA) Satellite Industry Forum. Billed as Asia’s leading C-level gathering for the space and satellite community, SIF 2026 brought together senior industry leaders, policymakers, and technology experts, setting the stage for a week of space-focused engagements during Asia Tech x Singapore.
As part of the programme, AAIS Senior Advisor Mr Sia Kheng Yok moderated a panel discussion titled “Digital Future: Next-Gen Space for a Smarter, Connected World”, featuring:
• Ms Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou, CEO, Tototheo Global
• Mr Mark Wong, SVP & Head of Group Strategic Planning, ST Engineering
• Mr Jason Buckalew, VP & Head of Asia Pacific, Gilat Satellite Networks
• Mr Ishan Baysal, Director for Programme Delivery, SpeQtral
The discussion highlighted several key themes shaping the future of the space sector:
- Space as critical infrastructure: Satellite systems are increasingly regarded as essential national infrastructure, no longer merely backup solutions. In many regions, they are becoming the primary digital fabric for connecting remote communities, islands, and maritime operations.
- Integration and interoperability challenges: The convergence of LEO and GEO satellites with private networks, cloud platforms, edge computing, and terrestrial systems is reshaping industry operations. For end-users, this promises seamless connectivity across fibre, satellite, and mobile networks. However, orchestrating across terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (NTN) remains complex, with standardization and interoperability as major hurdles.
- Resiliency, coverage, and mobility: Satellite networks enhance resilience by decentralizing physical infrastructure—disrupting a constellation is far more difficult than severing terrestrial nodes or subsea cables. They also extend coverage to vast and remote regions and support mobility by enabling connectivity for aircraft and vessels that routinely traverse the globe.
- Sovereignty and security concerns: As reliance on space-based infrastructure grows, so do concerns over sovereignty and data security. Emerging quantum technologies, particularly quantum key distribution (QKD), offer potential breakthroughs in next-generation cybersecurity, leveraging space-based platforms to deliver enhanced protection for communication networks.
Photos: Novaspace
The discussions reinforced the growing importance of space technologies as part of the digital infrastructure underpinning modern economies. As the sector continues to evolve, collaboration across industry, government, and academia will be essential to unlocking new opportunities and addressing future challenges.
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Opening the evening on behalf of AAIS, 2nd Vice President Mr Daven Tey welcomed members and partners, recognising new corporate members that had recently joined the Association. He emphasised the importance of continued industry collaboration and engagement, highlighting upcoming AAIS initiatives, including learning visits, community events and opportunities for dialogue.
Guests also heard from Mr Damien Imbert, Head of Customer Support APAC, Airbus, who shared more about Airbus’ activities and engagement across the Asia Pacific region. Captain Sunny Sum, Deputy General Manager and Head of Training at Airbus Asia Training Centre, also provided insights into AATC’s role in supporting aviation training excellence and strengthening Singapore’s position as a leading aviation hub.
A key highlight of the evening was the exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of AATC’s training facilities and Full Flight Simulators. Participants had the rare opportunity to step into the captain’s seat and experience the highly immersive simulator environment used for pilot training, a memorable experience for many aviation enthusiasts in attendance.
Adding to the excitement, the evening also featured a lucky draw, with the top prize being a 1:200 scale Airbus BelugaXL aircraft model.
AAIS extends its sincere appreciation to Airbus Singapore, Airbus Asia Training Centre, Aviators Loft @ AATC and the teams behind the scenes for hosting and facilitating the networking session.
Evenings like these are a reminder of the warm and close-knit community, and shared passion for aviation, that continue to drive Singapore’s aerospace industry forward.
]]>View more event photos here (gallery will be updated progressively): Aerophotoworks for AAIS
One of the staple and much-anticipated events on the AAIS calendar, this year’s edition marked its biggest turnout yet, with 33 teams participating from 18 companies.
Across alleys, bowlers demonstrated impressive skill and talent, bringing energy and focus to every frame. The atmosphere was lively throughout, with strikes, spares, and the occasional split keeping the competition engaging from start to finish.
Adding an extra layer of excitement were novelty games, including “4 Bagger,” “7-10 Splits,” and “5 Stand-Alone”, which injected fun challenges beyond the tournament format and sparked plenty of cheers among participants.
More than a competition, the event showcased the strong sense of community within the aerospace sector, with colleagues and industry partners coming together outside of their usual work environments to enjoy a shared experience.
The event concluded on a high note with celebrations for the top-performing teams and bowlers. Our heartiest congratulations to:
| Team Prizes | Company / Team Name |
|---|---|
| Team Champion | Singapore Aero Engine Services Private Limited / Team SAESL A |
| 1st Runner-up | SIA Engineering Company Limited / SIAEC Team 1 |
| 2nd Runner-up | GE Aerospace – Singapore Pte Ltd / GE Team 1 |
| Individual Prizes | Name / Company |
|---|---|
| Best Male Bowler | Oh Han Qin / Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre |
| Best Female Bowler | Nur Azri Muhamad Azan / GE Aerospace – Singapore Pte Ltd |
Our sincere appreciation to everyone who took part in making the tournament a success!
View more event photos here: Aerophotoworks for AAIS
Score sheets and event photos will be posted progressively as they are consolidated.
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The delegation was led by Mr Tadeusz Chomicki, Ambassador of Poland and included representatives from the Polish Space Agency (POLSA), the Embassy of Poland, AGH University of Krakow as well as several Polish space companies.
During the meeting, NSAS Deputy Chief Executive, Mr Jonathan Hung introduced the newly established National Space Agency of Singapore (NSAS) to the delegation. AAIS Chief Executive, Mr Chew Hwee Yong also provided an overview of the Singapore Space Community activities, highlighting the important role of government-industry collaboration in driving the sector’s growth. Discussions at the meeting covered talent development initiatives, including the role of institutes of higher learning in engaging and nurturing the youth’s interest in the emerging space sector. Participants also exchanged views on advancements in space technologies, research and development, as well as opportunities for future collaboration between Poland and Singapore.
The discussions were followed by a networking session, which provided participants with an opportunity to build connections and continue their exchanges in an informal setting.
As Singapore’s space sector continues to grow, we look forward to building on the connections established during the visit and fostering future collaborations between Singaporean and Polish space companies, research institutions, and ecosystem partners.
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Held on 29 April at EDB and sponsored by Coface, the seminar opened with remarks from AAIS CE Mr Chew Hwee Yong. He noted that companies are operating in a climate where disruption is becoming increasingly persistent and structural. Industry dialogue and collaboration have become ever more important as companies navigate evolving challenges and reposition for resilience across operations and supply chains.
Budget 2026 and Strategic Business Considerations
Mr Johanes Candra, Partner, Business Incentives Advisory at EY, kicked off the discussions with an overview of Singapore Budget 2026 and key strategic considerations for aerospace companies. He outlined several measures relevant to aerospace businesses, including:
- The upcoming introduction of the Domestic Top-up Tax under the global minimum tax framework
- Increases to minimum qualifying salaries impacting Employment Pass eligibility
- Government support measures and incentives for AI adoption, innovation and enterprise transformation
- The mandatory phased rollout of the InvoiceNow e-invoicing network for GST-registered businesses through to April 2031
Highlighting that GST treatment within aerospace businesses is often highly complex due to the mix of warranties, repairs, manufacturing, services and product transactions involved, companies were encouraged to begin implementation planning early to ensure their systems are able to manage these complexities effectively.
Trade Tensions and Supply Chain Risks
The subsequent segment on global trade developments was delivered by Ms Mok Sze Xin, Director, Tax ITTS, Global Trade and Customs Singapore at EY, and Mr Paul Griffiths, Partner, Operating Model Effectiveness at EY. Together, they unpacked the growing impact of geopolitical tensions, tariffs and trade controls on global manufacturing and aerospace supply chains.
Sze Xin spoke about the developments of U.S. trade and tariff measures, including the ongoing Section 232 and Section 301 investigations and their implications for the aerospace industry. Drawing parallels with earlier investigations affecting sectors such as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, she noted that aerospace companies should prepare for some level of tariff exposure and continue monitoring developments closely as trade measures evolve. She also highlighted the importance of scenario planning, trade compliance and proactive risk management in navigating a prolonged period of uncertainty.
Building on this, Paul discussed the operational and financial implications for companies exposed to the US market. He noted that costs are expected to rise for businesses operating across affected supply chains and advised companies to move early to secure supply chain arrangements and build greater flexibility into sourcing strategies. He also highlighted emerging mechanisms such as the U.S. IEEPA, which is shifting toward granular, product-code level trade restrictions.
The presentation highlighted how supply chain transparency, oversight, integrated procurement strategies and stronger operational visibility are becoming increasingly critical for companies navigating a more fragmented global trade environment. Businesses were encouraged to adopt a more proactive approach towards scenario planning, supply chain mapping and trade risk management.
Aerospace Outlook and Singapore’s Positioning
Representing the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Mr Zheng Jingxin (VP and Head, Mobility) shared broader perspectives on the global aerospace environment, supply chain shifts and Singapore’s long-term positioning as an aerospace hub.
Jingxin touched on the ongoing Middle East conflict and its impact on aviation, noting that while the situation remains serious, the aerospace industry is operating under very different conditions compared to the COVID-19 period. Fleet utilisation rates remain in the high 90% range, reflecting continued strong demand for air travel and aviation services despite geopolitical disruptions.
He also discussed ongoing aerospace supply chain and manufacturing challenges, including production bottlenecks and capacity constraints, while noting that these conditions are also creating sustained long-term demand for MRO services globally. On supply chain strategies, Jingxin highlighted how companies are increasingly responding by relocating geopolitically sensitive supply chains, adopting “China Plus One” strategies, and building competitive advantages through initiatives such as AI-enabled planning systems and improved operational visibility.
Jingxin also reaffirmed that aerospace remains a strategic sector for Singapore, supported by continued investments in infrastructure, connectivity, manufacturing capabilities and long-term talent development initiatives aimed at strengthening Singapore’s position as a trusted and globally connected aerospace hub.
Managing Risk in a “Perma-Crisis” Environment
The seminar then moved into a panel discussion featuring panellists Ms Grishma Kewada, Chief Executive & Country Manager, Singapore at Coface; Mr Kelvin Chung, Group Managing Director of the Transfingo Group of Companies; and Mr Zheng Jingxin. Moderated by Mr Joshua Ng, Director at Alton Aviation Consultancy, the discussion explored practical perspectives on managing trade, financing and operational risks in an increasingly volatile business environment.
Several themes and takeaways emerged in the robust and incisive session:
- Trade tensions and geopolitical fragmentation are reshaping business decisions. Panellists discussed how tariff actions, trade restrictions and geopolitical developments have intensified over the past two years, increasing uncertainty for businesses globally. The discussion also touched on the importance of maintaining trust, credibility and resilience within increasingly fragmented global supply chains.
- Talent shortages remain a major challenge for the aerospace sector. Manpower shortages remain one of the aerospace sector’s most pressing concerns as demand for skilled workers accelerates across manufacturing, MRO and aviation operations.
- Risk management is becoming increasingly data-driven. Companies are increasingly seeking not only insurance solutions, but also stronger business intelligence, supply chain visibility and credit insights to support decision-making. The discussion highlighted the growing importance of proactive risk management amid rising payment delays and tightening cashflow conditions.
- Aerospace supply chains are undergoing structural shifts. Even as customer expectations and business models are evolving rapidly, enterprises also face the challenge of managing differing expectations and needs amid geopolitical fragmentation, especially companies operating between Western and Chinese ecosystems.
- AI is emerging as both an opportunity and a disruption. The panel explored how AI is increasingly being adopted across financial processes, business intelligence and operational optimisation. AI was described as a foundational platform technology with significant long-term implications for business transformation, and the panel noted the importance of managing workforce adaptation and organisational change alongside technological adoption.
Workforce Transformation and Skills Development
The seminar concluded with a presentation by Ms Marlia Mohamed Isnin from Workforce Singapore (WSG), who shared updates on workforce initiatives and support schemes relevant to aerospace companies. These included the SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant (WDG) and Career Conversion Programme (CCP), which support workforce transformation, job redesign and skills development efforts. Marlia emphasised that workforce transformation should not be viewed purely as an HR exercise, but as a strategic business priority closely tied to long-term competitiveness and resilience.
AAIS thanks all speakers, panellists and participants for contributing to a highly insightful and timely discussion. AAIS also thanks participants for contributing to a live industry pulse survey capturing sentiments on current business challenges and support priorities. The findings will contribute towards our ongoing industry engagement efforts and future discussions with relevant government agencies.
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Featuring EASA experts, Mr Gian Andrea Bandieri, Section Manager Cybersecurity in Aviation & Conflict Zones, and Mr Vasileios Papageorgious, Cybersecurity in Aviation Expert, the session was rich with discussions on the evolving threat landscape and regulatory developments impacting aviation. Participants gained practical insights into strengthening cybersecurity resilience within increasingly digitalised and interconnected operational environments.
Over various sessions, speakers highlighted how advancements in technology have enhanced operational efficiency while simultaneously increasing exposure to cyber threats such as ransomware, data breaches, and denial-of-service attacks. Emphasis was placed on adopting a risk-based approach to cybersecurity, supported by strong governance, clear accountability, and organisation-wide awareness.
For cross-learning and reference, speakers also shared an overview of evolving European cybersecurity regulations and implementation expectations, including governance, risk assessment, incident management, and information security oversight. They stressed the importance of identifying critical assets, managing third-party and supply chain risks, and aligning cybersecurity efforts across IT, operational, and safety functions. Practical guidance was also provided on implementing Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) through a phased and proportionate approach tailored to organisational size, complexity, and risk exposure.
Key takeaways:
- Cybersecurity must be integrated across the organisation through strong governance, clear accountability, and collaboration between IT, operational, and safety functions
- A risk-based approach remains fundamental, requiring organisations to continuously identify critical assets, assess emerging threats, and review their cybersecurity posture
- Third-party and supply chain security are increasingly critical, with organisations encouraged to extend cybersecurity requirements and oversight to contractors, vendors, and service providers
- Effective incident management capabilities are essential, including timely detection, reporting, containment, and structured information-sharing processes
- ISMS implementation should be phased and proportionate, with organisations focusing on foundational elements such as governance, risk assessment, and documentation before advancing towards greater maturity
- Regulatory compliance requires demonstrable practices, supported by competent personnel, continuous improvement, and ongoing monitoring rather than documentation alone
Interactive Q&A sessions were availed during various segments for participants to clarify and share their perspectives. These discussions reinforced that cybersecurity is a continuous process requiring regular review, effective reporting mechanisms, competency development, and collaboration across stakeholders.
Overall, the workshop offered valuable guidance to support organisations in enhancing their cybersecurity readiness, regulatory compliance, and long-term operational resilience. AAIS extends our appreciation to Mr David Waller, EASA Representative in Southeast Asia, our esteemed speakers, and all participants for their valuable time, active engagement, and thoughtful questions, which contributed greatly to the rich exchange of knowledge. We also thank Republic Polytechnic for their generous support as venue partner.
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