The Singapore Airshow 2026 will take place 3–8 February 2026 at the Changi Exhibition Centre. As Asia’s largest aerospace and defense exhibition, the event draws global participation from commercial, military, and government aviation sectors.

For business aviation operators, this period represents one of the most restrictive operating environments in the region, requiring early coordination and strict adherence to published procedures.

Event Overview

Held biennially, the Singapore Airshow is among the world’s premier aerospace exhibitions, attracting more than 50,000 trade attendees, major OEMs, and over 150 commercial and cargo airlines.

• Trade Days: 3–6 February 2026
• Public Days: 7–8 February 2026
• Flying practice period begins: 29 January 2026
• Venue: Changi Exhibition Centre, 9 Aviation Park Road, Singapore 498760

Airspace Restrictions and Closures

According to AIP Supplement 161/2025, airspace restrictions will be in effect from 29 January through 8 February 2026 due to flying display practice, validation, and show-day operations.

During published flying display periods:

• Non-participating aircraft will not be permitted to enter the Changi Control Zone

• Landings and departures will not be allowed on:

  • RWY 02L/20R

  • RWY 02C/20C

  • CAB(E) RWY 02R/20L

• Exceptions apply only to aircraft participating in flying displays or those specifically approved by FCC and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)

Air Traffic Flow Management measures will be implemented before and after each closure period. When a Ground Delay Program is active, flights must comply with assigned CTOTs within a −5/+10 minute window.

Operators should plan to avoid operations during daily closure windows, carry at least 20 minutes of additional holding fuel, and expect potential ground delays or diversions during peak periods.

Note: Closure timings are subject to change.

Flights arriving or departing Singapore should avoid operating near these windows to prevent extended delays. CAAS also advises operators to carry sufficient holding fuel (at least 20 minutes) and to expect potential ground stops or diversions.

Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) measures will be implemented before and after each closure period. When a ground delay program is active, flights must comply with their assigned CTOT within a -5/+10 minute window.

Changi Airport (WSSS) – General Aviation Restrictions

From 29 January to 8 February 2026, non-airshow-related general aviation flights will be denied operations at Singapore Changi Airport (WSSS).

WSSS will only accommodate airshow-related flights conducting short turnarounds (pick-up or drop-off) during this period. Aircraft layovers will not be permitted unless supported by valid documentation justifying operational requirements and approved by CAAS.

As a result, WSSS should not be considered a viable parking airport for business aviation during the Singapore Airshow.

Primary Airport

Seletar Airport (WSSL) remains the default airport for all general aviation and business aviation operations during the Singapore Airshow period.

Operational highlights:

• Operating hours: 2300–1400 UTC daily

• Level 2 schedule-facilitated airport

• Port of entry with full CIQ services

• Modern terminal with a shared Business Aviation Centre

Parking availability at WSSL is limited but typically manageable with early coordination. Compact and hangar parking options are available, subject to demand.

Operators should anticipate CIQ processing delays, as the terminal accommodates one movement at a time. Noise abatement procedures are in effect between 1400 and 2300 UTC.

GCR Filing Requirements for WSSS Operations

All flights requesting operations to WSSS during the Singapore Airshow period must include the following information in the GCR SI message:

• Lead passenger

• Business entity

• Operational reason(s) for operating to WSSS

Incomplete or unsupported GCR filings may result in denial of approval.

Diplomatic Flights

Diplomatic flights must be filed in advance and include the approved MFA diplomatic permit number. Operators are reminded that MFA permit approval does not guarantee parking or bay availability, particularly at WSSS during the airshow period.

Alternate Airports

If parking is unavailable at WSSL, Johor Bahru (WMKJ), Malaysia provides a practical alternate.

The airport is located approximately 30 nautical miles from Singapore and offers an 11,000-foot runway with full GA support services. WMKJ closes nightly between 1600 and 2200 UTC. Ground transfer time from Singapore is approximately one hour.

Accommodation and Local Transport

Hotel availability in Singapore becomes limited during the airshow, with nightly rates typically ranging from USD 300 to 450 for four- and five-star properties. Early booking is strongly recommended.

Ground transportation options include pre-arranged chauffeured vehicles, local taxis, Grab, and Singapore’s MRT rail network.

In-Flight Catering

In-flight catering is available at both WSSL and WSSS. For customized catering, operators should provide at least 48 hours’ notice.

Refrigerated storage capacity at the WSSL Business Aviation Centre is limited.

Preferred Ground Handler

Universal Aviation Singapore, based at Seletar (WSSL), remains the preferred ground handler for business aviation operations during the Singapore Airshow.

The facility offers a modern operations center, IS-BAH Stage 3 accreditation, a towbarless Lektro tug capable of handling aircraft up to B737/A320 size, and full trip support including slot, parking, CIQ, and alternate airport coordination.

Key Planning Recommendations

• Plan all business aviation operations to WSSL

• Do not plan parking or layovers at WSSS

• File early for parking and slots

• Ensure GCR filings are complete and well supported

• Carry sufficient holding fuel

• Book hotels and ground transport well in advance

Conclusion

The Singapore Airshow 2026 represents one of the most operationally restrictive periods for business aviation in Southeast Asia. With daily airspace closures, denied access to WSSS for most general aviation flights, and limited parking at WSSL, early coordination is essential.

Universal Aviation Singapore can assist with all aspects of trip planning, including parking, CIQ coordination, slot management, and alternate airport arrangements, to ensure smooth operations during this high-traffic event.