Single aviation authority for ASEAN
As a component of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015, the Single Aviation Market (ASEAN-SAM or Open Skies Policy) came into effect on 1 January.
ASEAN-SAM will increase regional and domestic connectivity, integrate production networks and enhance regional trade by allowing airlines from ASEAN member states to fly freely throughout the region.
The air transport sector is currently facing challenges such as increased congestion and lacking infrastructure, due to rising demand. ASEAN integration in the air transport sector could help address these challenges, as well as improve the region’s negotiation position with other unified markets such as the EU. However, for ASEAN to truly achieve open skies there are still some policy barriers to overcome.
Issues discussed
- Proposal to create a common ASEAN regulator to oversee technical matters.
- Identify the specific areas or disciplines of technical regulation that the mutual recognition process can cover
- Significant barriers to ownership and control of airlines in ASEAN.
- Encourage more investment in infrastructure and human capital in aviation industry.
- Market access for ASEAN member states’ carriers into each other’s market is currently limited.
Sector Chair Aireen Omar, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia Bhd
Sector speakers
- Barathan Pasupathi, Chief Executive Officer, Jetstar Asia
- Brendan Sobie, Chief Analyst, Centre for Aviation (CAPA)
- Vinoop Goel, Asia-Pacific Regional Director of Airport, Passenger, Cargo & Security, International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Research Partner Dr.Alan Khee-Jin Tan, Professor, National University of Singapore Law School
