Authorities across Asia are reporting a significant rise in in-flight thefts, with organised crime groups targeting short-transit routes, including flights to and from Singapore.
Hong Kong has recorded 169 cases involving HK$4.32 million (US$550,000) in stolen valuables in the first 10 months of 2024 – a 75% increase from the same period last year. Malaysia saw 146 cases in the same timeframe, up from 88 the year before.
Singapore’s Airport Police Division told The Straits Times that syndicate members often work in pairs and target unsuspecting travellers before quickly boarding outbound flights.
“They will take only some cash and maybe one or two cards. They won’t take your whole wallet, because if they do, it is easier to notice,” said Assistant Commissioner M. Malathi.
The thefts are carried out by syndicate members who coordinate quick strikes during short transit flights, often using tactics like buying last-minute tickets, avoiding checked baggage, and switching airlines to evade detection.
Between January and May this year, three people were charged in Singapore with theft on board aircraft. Two Chinese nationals were charged in June for allegedly stealing cash and debit cards on a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore. A third Chinese national was convicted in May for a similar offence.
The International Air Transport Association (Iata) flagged concerns in June, citing a rise in thefts reported by airlines over the past 12 to 18 months, particularly on Asian routes. Many suspects reportedly buy last-minute tickets, carry no checked baggage and switch carriers frequently to evade detection.
Singapore Airlines and Scoot said cabin crew are trained to monitor for suspicious behaviour and assist authorities with investigations.
To enhance security, Changi Airport has deployed patrol robots since 2023. A new model capable of transporting an officer will launch in 2025.
Travellers themselves should also be advised to remain vigilant, keep their valuables on their person, and ensure their cabin bags are secured with a lock.