Debated in Parliament on 4 Mar 2025.
Mr Leong Mun Wai asked the Minister for Transport (a) whether LTA plays a role in regulating the Ground Transport Concierge (GTC) operations at the Changi Airport, in particular, in ensuring that there is a level playing field for taxi drivers in the provision of transportation services at Changi Airport; and (b) if so, what is being done by LTA to investigate the allegations made by the taxi drivers and promote fair practices in the provision of transportation services at Changi Airport.
Mr Xie Yao Quan asked the Minister for Transport (a) what is the detailed sequence of events leading up to the meeting of drivers of premium cabs at Changi Airport on 13 February 2025; and (b) what lessons can be drawn to prevent a similar situation from arising in future.
The Changi Airport Group (CAG) has engaged Woodlands Transport Service (WTS) since 2008 to manage Changi Airport's Ground Transport Concierge (GTC). The GTC provides passenger booking and driver coordination services for a range of transport options, including six- to seven-seater large-taxis and limousine taxis. This is a commercial arrangement between CAG and WTS.
On 1 February 2025, CAG and WTS introduced an eight-seater minibus service, operated by WTS, in response to growing demand by passengers for more transport options using larger vehicles. Unfortunately, a WTS ground manager had allowed WTS minibuses to park in front of the GTC counter, which was meant to be the staging area for the large-taxis. This led to perceptions among some of the drivers of large-taxis that WTS was according preferential treatment to its own minibus service. The arrangement was not approved by CAG.
On 13 February 2025, about 50 drivers of large-taxis at GTC met with WTS to express their unhappiness with the minibus service. The National Taxi Association (NTA) alerted CAG to the meeting and both NTA and CAG representatives were present on the ground to engage the drivers. After hearing the drivers' concerns, CAG immediately suspended the minibus service. Thanks to the support from the NTA and driver association leaders, who had stepped in to manage the situation, there was no disruption to the taxi services at Changi Airport.
Going forward, CAG has strengthened its oversight of WTS operations at GTC. WTS has also removed the ground manager from his role. CAG will work closely with tripartite partners, including the NTA and taxi drivers, to engage them directly and regularly on any changes at GTC, to secure their support prior to implementation.
This incident shows the importance of tripartism. While there may be disagreements and disputes between stakeholders from time to time, our close tripartite relationship allows these to be resolved via mediation and reconciliation, rather than through conflict and confrontation.
PAPERCUTS