What is the ST Engineering AirFish and how does it work?

It is a wing-in-ground effect craft that flies a few meters above the water on a cushion of air, which reduces drag and boosts efficiency. This enables faster trips than standard ferries on short sea routes. It targets island-connector services where speed, reliable schedules, and lower operating costs matter.

When will trials and passenger services begin in Singapore?

ST Engineering targets Q2 2026 trials to validate performance, safety, and operations in local waters. The company aims to start a Singapore passenger route by Q3 2026, pending approvals and successful tests. A ferry-operator partner is set to be announced on February 03 at the Singapore Airshow.

Why is this important for investors in Singapore?

The project can add a new revenue stream in maritime mobility, bridging trips that are too short for air but slow by conventional ferries. Investors should track the partner reveal, trial progress, regulatory updates, and early operating metrics like dispatch reliability, load factors, and turn times to gauge commercial traction.

Which routes could the AirFish serve first?

Initial routes will likely be short, high-demand island links where faster travel brings clear value and terminals need minimal upgrades. Exact routes depend on the operator, approvals, and terminal access. The focus will be predictable schedules, safe operations in local sea states, and quick turnarounds at existing piers.

Global Market Insights

ST Engineering AirFish: SG Route, Q2 Trials, Partner Reveal February 03

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 3, 2026February 3, 2026

ST Engineering AirFish is moving from concept to service, with Q2 2026 trials and a Singapore passenger route planned by Q3 2026. The company will announce a ferry-operator partner on February 03 as the Singapore Airshow opens. The craft uses wing-in-ground effect to skim over water, offering faster island links. For investors in Singapore, the timeline signals a near-term path to new revenue in regional maritime mobility if trials, approvals, and operations meet targets.