Singapore Airlines moves to protect its interest in Tiger Airways

It’s not a question on whether former SIA boss will be able to save Tiger Airways. Surely he will as aside from his wide experience in managing airline operations, Chin Yau Seng will be motivated to protect Singapore Airlines’ interest, according to analysts.

Regardless of his expertise, Rohan Suppiah of KimEng Research believes that former SilkAir Mr. Chin is there to protect the 30% stake that SIA has on Tiger Airways.

SilkAir is a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore Airlines. Immediately after Tiger Airways was banned from flying to Australia, Mr. Chin has been appointed as an executive director to help the low-cost carrier run existing operations.

“It was quite an urgent appointment and his expertise will surely provide assistance to ailing Tiger Airways. On top of his mind however is the drive to protect SIA’s interest,” he said.

Another analyst who requested anonymity commented: “Of course, he will not let Tiger Airways fall as he knows SIA will be hurt too.”

Asked to comment on the issue, Singapore Airlines spokesperson reiterated that "Singapore Airlines and Tiger Airways are managed independenty."

Mr. Chin has worked for the SIA group since 1995 and has served as Chief Executive Officer of SilkAir, a wholly owned subsidiary, from March 2007 to October 11, 2010. Prior to that, he has held postings as SIA’s Vice-president of Planning and Fuel for Singapore Airlines and General Manager in Greece, Regional Marketing Manager for Europe (based in London). His local appointments in Singapore meanwhile include heading the Network Revenue Management Department and Passenger Marketing Department.

Aviation analyst Robert Bruce at Hongkong-based CLSA Research said that the board of Tiger Airways appointed him as they are banking on his exemplary track record on management. “Being with Singapore Airlines for years Mr. Chin has good experience particularly in planning and risk control” he said.

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