MOM Probes 45 Firms Over Work Pass Offences at Changi Airport

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is investigating around 45 companies involved in Changi Airport operations for suspected work pass offences, including false declarations and the illegal deployment of foreign workers. As of November 3, 2026, the investigation focuses on potential regulatory breaches involving contractors and sub-contractors associated with ground handler SATS.

Why it is trending now

Public interest has surged following the announcement that MOM inspectors discovered Employment Pass holders performing manual baggage-handling tasks. Preliminary findings suggest that the occupations and salaries declared to the ministry for these individuals were false. Additionally, other work pass holders were found to be performing work that did not match their declared occupations.

Key facts

• MOM identified approximately 270 workers employed by SATS contractors and sub-contractors whose deployment may not comply with regulations, according to the ministry's statement on November 2.
• SATS has implemented internal operational adjustments and is asking staff to volunteer for temporary baggage-handling duties to maintain service levels, as reported by The Straits Times.
• The ministry has directed SATS to strengthen its oversight of all contracted companies to ensure compliance with work pass guidelines.
• Investigations into the suspected offences are ongoing, according to The Business Times.

Why this is trending in Singapore

This issue is trending locally due to the critical nature of Changi Airport operations and the potential impact on service levels during the upcoming Deepavali long weekend. The involvement of a major airport ground handler has drawn significant attention from the public and business community regarding employment compliance standards.

Background and context

SATS confirmed in an email to staff on November 3 that it is currently rectifying compliance deficiencies in accordance with MOM guidelines. The company is enhancing its verification process controls to ensure that all workers provided by contractors are deployed strictly according to the terms of their valid work passes.

What happens next

MOM continues to conduct its investigation into the identified firms. SATS has stated that it is cooperating with the ministry to ensure operations continue to run safely and smoothly while managing the required operational adjustments.