Using AI to fly an airplane will be an enormous achievement; the ultimate reflection of AI’s ability to manage complexity. It will be a critical piece to implementing the changes that will be required in the next decade as A&D organizations reassess manufacturing automation in their factories. The recent pandemic, furloughs, bankruptcies and retirements are all impacting productivity and widening the talent gap, forcing the industry to adopt new technology such as AI to reimagine their business.

What is AI and machine learning?

AI, like so many technology buzzwords, can mean different things to different people. For us, an AI system is one that leverages software functions created through a machine learning process rather than through traditional programming. Data, rather than source code, is the critical element. The performance of an AI application is shaped by the data used to train the application. 

AI is critical for managing the anticipated disruptions in the ATM (air traffic management) industry over the next 10 years. One such disruption being watched closely is the pending introduction of drones and air taxis, often known as urban air mobility systems. Thus, the second use case is building an AI air traffic controller. 

The aviation industry is under pressure to improve the sustainability of air travel while improving operational efficiency in an increasingly complex marketplace that is still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In an industry where safety is paramount and new technologies require utmost scrutiny, generative AI promises to boost aviation businesses and their industry partners.

There are a myriad of potential use cases for generative AI. Some use cases require time to integrate with existing business systems and processes, but industry leaders should move forward to areas best suited for generative AI’s strengths. These include enhancing customer experiences through better, more personalized travel recommendations and promotions, as well as improving customer service by creating more robust virtual assistants. Generative AI could also help maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) technicians by enabling them to retrieve relevant information more effectively for repairs, or by automating the creation of parts and equipment orders so repair or maintenance can start as soon as a plane lands.

Some airlines are already using generative AI in communications and customer service operations, including automating translations of texts, producing marketing materials and writing copies. AAR Corp, a private provider of aviation services, is considering the use of generative AI to optimize inventory management, provide predictive maintenance, improve warehouse operations and automate parts ordering.