Changi increases offering to airlines

THE Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has extended its air hub development fund for another year and increased its budget by 30 percent to US$87 million.

Airlines calling at Changi have received a 25 per cent landing fee rebate since 2003. Originally it was to encourage continued flights at the height of the SARS fears in 2003 but it has been extended in light of the global slump in air traffic.

“CAAS recognises the tough operating environment that airlines and airport partners are currently under,” said Lim Kim Choon, CAAS director-general and chief executive officer.

“By extending the fund, CAAS hopes to help them over the downturn,” he added.

CAAS is also streamlining air traffic management to reduce waiting times and so help airlines reduce their operating costs.