Following a fatal collision at Haneda Airport, civil aviation authorities aim to prevent runway incursions with technology and cooperation
Runway Safety Partnership
SINGAPORE – The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and Japan’s Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) are joining forces to improve runway safety through advanced technology and collaborative measures. This partnership follows a tragic incident at Haneda Airport on 2 January 2024, where a Japan Airlines Airbus A350 collided with a Japan Coast Guard plane, resulting in five fatalities.
During the third Singapore-Japan aviation dialogue in Kansai on 14 and 15 November, both countries agreed to prioritize runway safety. JCAB sought insights from CAAS, which has implemented comprehensive safety measures at Changi and Seletar airports.
Incident That Sparked Action
The Haneda Airport collision occurred when a coast guard plane mistakenly entered an active runway, leading to the crash. Although all 379 passengers and crew aboard the JAL jet survived, the event underscored the critical importance of robust safety protocols.
CAAS shared that its action plans rely on close coordination with airlines, airport operators, and ground handlers, ensuring updated risk mitigation strategies through ongoing reviews.
Broadening Collaboration
In addition to runway safety, the two aviation authorities are expanding cooperation in air traffic management, aviation innovation, and sustainability. Initiatives include:
User-Preferred Routing: Allowing pilots to select more direct routes to reduce flight times and carbon emissions. Singapore is already conducting trials on 38 routes.
Technology for Rising Air Travel Demand: Leveraging innovations to enhance capacity and productivity, exemplified by Tokyo’s Narita Airport joining the International Aviation Lab based in Singapore.
Rising Air Connectivity
Air travel between Singapore and Japan has nearly rebounded, with 165 weekly flights now operating at 89% of pre-pandemic levels. Full recovery is anticipated by 2025.
As two major Asia-Pacific air hubs, Singapore and Japan are committed to sharing expertise to ensure safer skies and sustainable aviation practices.
