MOM investigates 45 Changi Airport firms over work pass breaches

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has initiated formal inquiries into 45 firms involved in airport operations at Changi following suspected breaches of work pass regulations. The probe centres on employment arrangements affecting around 270 workers whose deployments may not have complied with prevailing rules.

The investigations represent part of the ministry's ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with Singapore's employment framework across major operational hubs. Changi Airport, as one of the country's largest employment centres, regularly comes under regulatory scrutiny to maintain standards across its diverse contractor and service provider network.

MOM has not disclosed specific details regarding the nature of the alleged violations or the timeline for completing its investigations. The ministry typically examines cases involving improper work pass classifications, undeclared employment arrangements, or failures to meet sponsorship obligations.

Companies found to have breached work pass regulations face potential penalties ranging from fines to employment pass cancellations and director disqualifications. Workers involved in non-compliant arrangements may also face consequences including pass cancellations and repatriation.

The investigations underscore the importance of regulatory compliance within Singapore's aviation sector, where thousands of workers from various backgrounds operate across multiple employment categories.