AI deployed for enhanced safety, predictive maintenance and air traffic flow
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The aviation industry is no stranger to advanced systems that support, and at times replace, the need for human input. This notwithstanding, recent advancements in AI have had a profound impact across the industry; AI is being deployed to design more efficient airframes and engines, invent new composite materials, and to enhance safety, fuel efficiency and overall performance.
In the area of predictive maintenance, AI systems are able to analyse vast amounts of real time data from aircraft and engine sensors, combining this with its analysis of historical maintenance records to predict potential failures before they occur. This helps airlines to optimise their maintenance schedules and thus reduce downtime and improve fleet availability.
In air traffic management, AI optimises route planning, airspace operation, and traffic flow, allowing for more efficient use of airspace thus minimising delays, reducing fuel burn and emissions.
In and around airports, AI systems are deployed in a variety of scenarios too, from passport and security checks to baggage handling, as well as enhancing the passenger experience through a more bespoke and efficient service, leading to fewer delays. And for airports which can’t employ enough staff to carry out day to day functions, an AI-led robotic approach is proving critical to enable them to sustain their operations.
It is clear that AI plays an important role in an often sensitive and high-risk environment, putting it front and centre of many new laws governing AI, including the EU AI Act. This is an increase of the compliance burden for companies operating in the aviation industry, on top of what is already a highly regulated sector.
For further information, please contact Leo Fattorini and Berend van der Eijk.
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