Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower is investigating around 45 companies involved in Changi Airport operations over suspected work-pass offences, according to its November 2 announcement. The ministry said checks had identified around 270 workers employed by SATS contractors and subcontractors whose deployment may have breached work-pass rules.
What the ministry is investigating
MOM said an airport inspection found Employment Pass holders doing baggage-handling work. Its preliminary inquiries suggested that declared salaries and occupations were inaccurate. Other work-pass holders were also found handling baggage despite having different declared occupations.
The ministry has told SATS to strengthen oversight of its contractors, verify workers’ deployment against their passes and address compliance deficiencies. It has also advised other companies involved in SATS operations to meet their work-pass obligations.
SATS response and investigation status
In a separate statement reported by The Edge Singapore on November 2, SATS said its internal audit had identified irregularities at some contractors. The company said it took action, broadened its review, shared information with MOM and strengthened verification controls.
The investigation remains open. MOM said enforcement action depends on establishing breaches; its figures do not mean every company or worker has committed an offence.
What passengers should take from the announcement
The notice concerns employment compliance in airport operations. It does not announce flight cancellations or a closure of Changi Airport. Travellers should use their airline’s messages and individual flight status for operational decisions.
Sources: Ministry of Manpower, November 2; SATS response reported by The Edge Singapore, November 2.
