RIVALRY IN AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Abstract

The rivalry in the development of airports in the Southeast Asian region brings to mind the potential problems and threats that Singapore, as one of the leading in the air industry, might be forced to reckon with in the future. While Singapore currently stands in good stead in comparison to the rest of her competitors, one cannot guarantee that she will continue to remain so in the future if she does not develop her base as quickly, if not faster, than her rivals. Resting on our laurels and waiting for the problem to come to a head-on collision with us is definitely not the way to go. Our competitors meanwhile are all gearing up towards the next millennium, in anticipation of the expected growth in air travel. Thus, we ought to do the same if we want to retain our share of the 'Southeast Asian Pie'. Complacency will only hasten our downfall and so we must seek to eradicate our weaknesses and exploit our strengths. In fact, this has been the philosophy that CAAS has adopted. By providing capacity ahead of demand, she assures that the high standards of safety, quality and service are not compromised. The need to maintain our level of competitiveness leaves us to ponder on the changes and improvements that needs to be undertaken if we are to succeed as the regional hub we aspire to be. One thing Singapore can be sure of is, judging from the present situation, it will be some time before we are ousted out of our position.