《Singapore-China 'Fast Lane' Criticised》

Image: Airbus

Some Singaporeans have reacted sharply to the government's announcement of an agreement reached with China to launch a 'Fast Lane' in June to facilitate essential travel between the two countries.

A statement released by the Foreign Ministry said that, with effective coronavirus prevention and measures in place, the arrangement will be applied between Singapore and 6 Chinese provinces - Shanghai, Tianjin, Chongqing, Guangdong, Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

Eventually, it will be expanded to the rest of China. The two countries have also agreed to explore increasing air links for the proposed 'Fast Lane'.

Since Feb 1, Singapore has banned the entry or transit of Chinese Nationals and anyone with a travel history to mainland China.

However, some netizens commented that it would be "too risky" to open up air travel to China.

There are definitely advantages and disadvantages regarding this move by the Singaporean government. This agreement will allow Singapore Airlines Group, which has substantial operations in China, to start reopening flights and boost its income. China is also a huge market for Changi Airport, with many flights entering the airport from China. Chinese nationals are also a key player in the tourism industry in Singapore, in which the industry about 4% directly to the city state's GDP. This agreement will help in the recovery of air travel and the local aviation industry in the longer term, as more flights are introduced. Demand for flights between both countries will definitely build up gradually.

However, the measures taken to curb the spread of transmission of virus within airports and aircrafts may not be fully effective, which may cause a rise in imported cases if the relevant authorities are not careful.

Necessary measures must be taken seriously and everyone must do their part to ensure safe air travel and for the aviation industry to take off again.