Singapore Aero Engine Services secures win at Singapore Business Review National Business Awards 2026

It has achieved 65% reduction in cycle time, directly boosting throughput capacity whilst overcoming manpower and capacity limitations.

Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility Singapore Aero Engine Services Private Limited (SAESL) emerged victorious in the Aerospace category at the Singapore Business Review National Business Awards 2026 for its success in developing an automated inspection solution that has improved efficiency, consistency, and scalability.

The system standardises inspection processes and improves measurement consistency by embedding inspection logic into the system. This comes as the inspection and repair of its Nozzle Guide Vanes and Stator Vanes have traditionally relied on multiple manual processes, including visual checks and dimensional measurements. These methods have been time-consuming and prone to inconsistencies due to operator variability.

Developed between 2022 and 2025, it was implemented in two phases: first focusing on visual inspection and external measurements, and later advancing to automated dimensional inspection using robotics and smart technologies. Additional features such as OCR-enabled cameras and code readers ensure full traceability of components.

The first industrialised machine supporting a single foil stator vane was successfully delivered and commissioned by the end of 2025, marking a significant milestone in transitioning the solution from development and validation to operational readiness.

SAESL’s automated inspection system has achieved a 65% reduction in cycle time, significantly increasing throughput whilst addressing manpower and capacity constraints. By integrating an automated measurement methodology, it has also eliminated human variability and ensured consistent, traceable, and repeatable results, greatly reducing the risk of rework.

Moving from prototype to full deployment, two more machines are on order, establishing a scalable and standardised inspection cell that future-proofs dimensional inspection capabilities. It has also enabled SAESL to scale operations to meet a two to three-fold increase in forecasted operation volume without requiring significant investments in major facility expansion or additional manpower.

“By embracing a human-centric automation approach, SAESL has not only addressed the increase in load demand, but also continues our journey to upskill the workforce, allowing employees to transition to higher-value roles. This balanced approach ensures sustainable growth whilst reinforcing SAESL’s long-term competitiveness and positions SAESL strongly within an increasingly demanding global MRO landscape,” the company said.

The Singapore Business Review National Business Awards is a prestigious programme that celebrates the remarkable achievements of homegrown companies in Singapore. The awards recognise transformative business initiatives, innovative strategies, and impactful projects that have enabled these companies to build a strong reputation in the competitive landscape of the Lion City.

The Singapore Business Review National Business Awards is presented by Singapore Business Review Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2027 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's exceptional contributions to the local business landscape in Singapore, please contact Danica Avila at [email protected].