Singapore’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAS) is introducing new regulatory requirements under ANR-129, the Foreign Operator’s Permit (FOP) Regulations, which are now expected to take effect in the third quarter of 2025. This updated timeline, originally scheduled for June, is intended to provide a smoother transition for industry stakeholders. A specific go-live date will be announced once finalized.

These new regulations will replace the current Air Navigation Order (ANO) and establish a clearer, more structured framework for foreign commercial air transport (CAT) and aerial work (AW) operations into and out of Singapore.

For business aviation operators, compliance with ANR-129 will be essential to avoid operational disruptions. The regulation introduces new permit requirements, notification obligations, and financial penalties for non-compliance.

Who Needs a Foreign Operator’s Permit (FOP) Under ANR-129?

Under ANR-129, foreign Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders conducting CAT operations into Singapore will require a Foreign Operator’s Permit, depending on how the operation is set up:

1. If an operator does not hold an AOC, an FOP is not required.

2. If an operator holds an AOC but the aircraft is not listed under it, an FOP is not required.

3. If the aircraft is listed under an AOC, an FOP is required, even for non-revenue flights.

This means foreign AOC holders will need an FOP for:

1. Charter flights, both revenue and non-revenue

2. Passenger and cargo operations, including medevac flights

3. Technical stops and positioning flights, even if no passengers or cargo are offloaded

4. Aerial work operations, if the aircraft:

   • Takes off or lands in Singapore, or

   • Conducts aerial work over Singaporean airspace (such as surveys or photography)

Do Part 91 Operators Need to Comply?

No, if the operator does not hold an AOC.

Private Part 91 operators flying non-commercial missions without an AOC are exempt from the FOP requirement. However, if an operator holds an AOC, they must comply, even for non-revenue ferry, positioning, or maintenance flights.

Who Is Exempt from the Permit Requirement?

The following operations do not require an FOP:

1. Emergency landings

2. Diplomatic flights (subject to Ministry of Foreign Affairs approval)

3. Alternate aerodrome landings

4. Maintenance flights with no passengers or cargo

5. Overflights

New Compliance Requirements for Operators

FOP Holder Responsibilities

Operators granted an FOP must comply with ongoing reporting and regulatory obligations, including:

1. Notifying CAAS of changes to:

   • Company name

   • Principal place of business

   • Operational specifications (for example, switching from passenger to cargo operations)

   • Appointed safety representative

2. Providing a Singapore-based address for official communications

Representative Requirement

All FOP holders must appoint a designated representative to liaise with CAAS. This person:

1. Must hold a senior management role, such as Director of Flight Operations, Safety, or Quality

2. Does not need to reside in Singapore

3. Must be registered with CAAS

4. Any change in this representative must be reported to CAAS within five business days

Financial Penalties for Non-Compliance

CAAS will impose financial penalties for violations of ANR-129 as follows:

Revised Implementation Timeline

1. February to March 2025 – Industry consultation and feedback

2. April 2025 – Final ANR-129 regulations expected to be published

3. Q3 2025 – Regulations go into effect (exact date to be confirmed)

Note: Existing Operations Permits (OPs) issued under the current ANO will remain valid until their next renewal.

Key Takeaways for Business Aviation Operators

1. Foreign AOC holders operating into Singapore, including non-revenue flights, must apply for an FOP

2. Part 91 private operators without an AOC are exempt

3. Diplomatic, emergency, overflight, and maintenance flights are also exempt

4. Operators must designate a representative and provide a local address for regulatory communications

5. Financial penalties will apply for non-compliance

6. Operators should begin preparing now to avoid disruptions during the transition

Next Steps

If your operation holds an AOC and your aircraft is listed under it, start preparing to apply for an FOP before Q3 2025. Private Part 91 operators without an AOC do not need to take any action. Charter operators should work closely with their trip support providers to ensure full compliance.

To stay ahead of regulatory changes and avoid delays or penalties, contact Universal Aviation Singapore for support and guidance.