Retiring Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) air traffic controllers can now pursue a second career as civilian Air Traffic Controllers with the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).

The RSAF and CAAS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today to formalise a career transition partnership for retiring RSAF Air Traffic Controllers.

The MoU was signed by Mr Tay Tiang Guan, CAAS Senior Director (Regulatory and International Group) and Colonel Kwek Kok Kwong, Commander Air Defence and Operations Command. Witnessing the MoU signing were Mr Lim Kim Choon, CAAS Director-General and Chief Executive Officer and Major-General Ng Chee Khern, Chief of Air Force, as well as senior management from both organisations.

In a press statement issued by the CAAS, it said that the scheme allows them to employ the highly-trained and experienced RSAF Air Traffic Controllers to supplement its current recruitment sources of air traffic controllers.

RSAF air traffic controllers have relevant operational experience in aerodrome and approach control services and are trained in and familiar with civil air traffic control standards as defined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Major-General Ng Chee Khern, Chief of Air Force said: "As the RSAF transforms, we recognise that the success of the 3rd Generation RSAF hinges on the high quality and commitment of our people. As an organisation, we are also committed to developing our people to their fullest potential and to provide them with a meaningful and rewarding career."

In his address during the MoU signing, Mr Lim Kim Choon said: "The partnership between the RSAF and CAAS in Air Traffic Controller scheme showcases the commitment of CAAS in strengthening the professionalism of its Air Traffic Controller workforce.

Their vast experience and skills in military air traffic control represents a valuable supply of highly-trained resource to meet CAAS' manpower needs. CAAS welcomes the scheme and look forward to our RSAF counterparts joining us as civil Air Traffic Controllers."

The pioneer batch of RSAF Air Traffic Controllers will join CAAS on the new scheme in March this year.