To boost its technological capabilities and regain the title of the best airline, national carrier Singapore Airlines(SIA) has partnered with four organisations today, including Agency for Science, Technology and Research(A*STAR), National University of Singapore(NUS), Economic Development Board(EDB) and Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore(CAAS). The agreement was signed under SIA’s digital innovation blueprint programme.
S Iswaran, Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) of Singapore and representatives from four organisations were present today during the launch of the partnerships at a ceremony organised at the Singapore Airlines Training Centre.
The main purpose of the partnership is to focus on building capabilities to increase efficiency through digital technology as well as to develop new business opportunities.
Several agreements were signed in the programme, including the Master Research Collaboration Agreement with A*STAR. The purpose of this agreement is to identify and develop applied research partnership opportunities. It includes research fields in areas such as data analytics, Internet of Things, and virtual and augmented reality to boost the efficiency of maintenance processes.
In addition to this, the agreement will also develop smart solutions that will help in lowering maintenance costs, decreasing aircraft delays, and aiding the airline in enhancing service standards.
“(The agreement) will allow SIA to leverage technology such as video and data analytics, virtual and augmented reality, and automated technologies to boost the efficiency of airline operations,” said Professor Tan Sze Wee, executive director of A*STAR's Science and Engineering Research Council.
“Such joint innovation partnerships will position Singapore's aviation sector well in future,” he added.
Further, a Digital Innovation Lab will also be set up to enable Singapore Airlines staff to work with innovative companies to stimulate new ideas and facilitate collaboration in a creative environment.
Commenting on the partnership, Goh Choon Phong, CEO of SIA, said, “Our partnerships with these key agencies also signify our commitment to developing Singapore as a digital hub in the wider aviation and travel industry.”
“With the launch of our digital innovation blueprint, we aim to be the leading digital airline in the world,” he added.