Changi Airport Group (CAG) excels in creating memorable experiences for every traveller who passes through its gates, from check-in to take-off. This commitment is reflected in its world-class facilities, seamless processes, and a strong focus on customer service that prioritises passenger comfort and convenience.

This dedication to fostering a best-in-class travel experience attracted Scholar Lim Yong Xu to CAG. With an academic background in Economics and Industrial Organisation, Yong Xu believes that his statistical knowledge and analytical skills will empower him to contribute meaningfully to Changi Airport. He aims to maintain its leading position in the aviation industry while further elevating the passenger experience to new heights.

Yong Xu shares more about the opportunities he has gained through CAG and the exciting prospects he is eager to pursue in his career.

Why did you choose to pursue a degree in Economics and Industrial Organisation?

While economics may seem like a conventional field of study, I’ve always been intrigued by its omnipresence in our everyday lives. For instance, why is my favourite chicken rice getting more expensive? Why are flights more expensive during certain periods? These can be explained through economics. It was an inexplicable curiosity that drove me to explore the subject further, particularly in the realm of firm strategies and dynamics, which is at the heart of industrial organisation.

You’ve got quite an inquisitive streak! What made you decide to apply for a scholarship with CAG?

Minister Ong Ye Kung, then Transport Minister, once described our airport as the “lungs” that “oxygenate and vitalise our economy”. That quote stuck with me. I want to be part of an environment that exudes a culture of excellence, fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, and, above all, places service at its core. Where better to make a difference than at Changi Airport?

That’s a great perspective! Could you give us an overview of the undergraduate degree programme you are currently pursuing at the University of Warwick?

I’m currently pursuing a three-year undergraduate programme that deep dives into macro and microeconomics—this provides a solid foundation in mathematical tools for effective analysis. For example, the statistical tools and economic knowledge acquired would strengthen my analysis of world events and their key impact on CAG. This helps us to be better poised to tackle any challenges that come our way.

The programme also offers me the opportunity and flexibility to pursue optional modules outside of Economics. For instance, it allows me to take modules in marketing and even foreign languages. For the marketing module that I took, it trains our market research and analytical skills on how to leverage market opportunities to develop our own product proposals. This allowed me to appreciate the diligence and tenacity required for the work at CAG’s business development teams, such as Air Hub and Cargo Development and Commercial.

Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities during your internship? What exciting projects did you get to dive into?

I recently interned with the Airport Management team, specifically, in Airside Operations Planning. I worked with the Runway and Taxiway Safety team on projects related to wildlife management, runway safety, and the use of panoramic cameras on the airside. I was exposed to a myriad of projects, including trials for automatic wildlife detection using video analytics. My most memorable experience was with Runway Safety; I had the unique opportunity to observe a runway closure and even walk on the runway at 3 AM! How many interns can say they’ve experienced that?

What were some of your biggest takeaways from your internship experience?

I developed a greater appreciation for the complexity and significance of the work behind the scenes at Changi Airport. But the most important lesson I learned was that everything starts with asking the right questions: Whose life am I impacting? How can I improve the experience of the next passenger who walks through the airport doors? By having clarity on these fundamental questions, we stay grounded yet driven to continue breaking barriers.

What are your career goals, and how do you plan to make them happen with what you’ve learned from your studies and internship?

I aspire to shape new frontiers and create a world-class passenger experience for everyone who steps into Changi Airport. The knowledge I’ve gained from studying behavioural economics will provide valuable insights into passenger experiences. By using statistical tools, I can also better understand trends and craft a more targeted and nuanced approach to enhancing the Changi Airport experience. Additionally, my time in airside operations has given me crucial insights into the challenges we face behind the scenes—it has equipped me with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions when shaping that great airport experience.

What advice would you give to students who are considering applying for this scholarship?

I learned that CAG is passionate about pushing frontiers and, above all, committed to fostering a people-centered culture. If you embody these qualities, you are already well on your way! Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the aviation industry; I was once in that position and I think the dynamism and excitement of the work will make you fall in love with it. Lastly, be courageous and take that leap of faith—exciting opportunities await you!