In a new report, Aerviva said that new technologies are proving to be cost-effective and beneficial in areas such as efficiency, safety, professional training, air traffic management automation, and performance optimisation.

This new tech is necessary because, according to IATA, global passenger numbers are expected to reach 5.2 billion in 2025, a 6.7 percent increase from 2024. Cargo volumes are projected to rise by 5.8 percent, reaching 72.5 million tonnes.

With the growing number of air passengers and the expansion of airline routes, the aviation industry faces a shortage of specialists. Boeing estimates that, globally, 674,000 new pilots, 716,000 maintenance technicians, and 980,000 cabin crew members will be needed over the next two decades. The industry is embracing digitalisation to enhance efficiency and profitability, creating demand for professionals in cybersecurity, data analytics, AI development, and operational optimisation.

Aerviva CEO Abdelmagid Bouzougarh said: “The aviation sector is constantly investing in digital technologies, creating a demand for new professionals capable of leading teams in these rapidly changing times. As digitalisation progresses each year, aviation professionals must develop new skills, including adaptability and a combination of aviation expertise and IT knowledge.”

Digitalisation aids pilots by enhancing operational efficiency, situational awareness, pilot collaboration, and safety protocol adherence. AI provides real-time weather and flight plan data, though pilots must develop critical analysis and monitoring skills to work alongside AI-assisted flight systems.

Virtual reality simulations and AI-driven training programs are enabling scenario-based digital learning. Lufthansa Technik's AI-driven Advanced Aircraft Maintenance Training (AAMT) system integrates machine learning with real-time flight data to simulate emergencies and mechanical failures.

Meanwhile, Aerviva points out the aviation industry is struggling to attract and retain skilled technicians. Deloitte estimates that the US commercial aerospace sector will need an additional 123,000 technicians over the next two decades. Digitalisation offers solutions by optimising workforce management and leveraging AI for predictive maintenance. Advanced detection systems analyse real-time aircraft data, providing predictive maintenance insights to reduce downtime and unexpected repairs.

Airbus’ Skywise, a cloud-based AI platform, enhances aircraft maintenance through big data analytics. Boeing’s Insight Accelerator, part of its Airplane Health Management suite, minimises flight delays and cancellations by using real-time maintenance alerts. Digital twin technology, which continuously updates virtual aircraft models with real-time sensor data, allows engineers to proactively predict and address maintenance issues.

Air traffic controllers (ATC) manage dynamic information, and AI-based technologies can reduce their workload while improving safety and efficiency. AI can automate routine tasks, improve weather forecasting, enhance situational awareness, and optimise flight path calculations.

Data link systems enhance pilot-controller communication, reducing errors and freeing radio frequencies. However, human oversight remains crucial, as AI systems face regulatory and adaptability challenges. Trust in AI-driven aviation systems remains a key consideration for passengers and staff.

The aviation industry is seeing a surge in demand for AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity specialists. RTX Corp plans to expand its workforce in India by 1,000 employees by 2027, focusing on engineers and data scientists. Boeing is recruiting AI and machine learning professionals to enhance predictive maintenance in MRO operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also offers IT, cybersecurity, and data analysis career opportunities.

Bouzougarh said: “Advanced technologies bring more exciting career opportunities, as specialists can deepen their knowledge in specific areas. We should emphasise the need for data analytics, machine learning, and AI operations specialists. With the expansion of digital systems, emerging roles include cybersecurity and AI specialists, data scientists and analysts, all of which play a key role in the aviation sector.”