In my last article I wanted to hammer home the massive impact AI will have on all of us soon. From the New York Times they also wrote about the AI revolution in aviation.
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the airline industry, turning chaotic travel disruptions into seamless journeys. Take, for example, a recent scenario where United Airlines’ AI tool, ConnectionSaver, held a London-bound flight for 13 passengers from Costa Rica. Instead of missing their flight due to a slight delay, the plane waited, ensuring they and their luggage arrived in London on time. ConnectionSaver communicated the delay effectively to all passengers, eliminating the usual airport sprint.
AI’s influence is profound, extending from flight retention to route optimization. Alaska Airlines uses AI to plan efficient routes, taking into account weather and airspace restrictions. This system, operational since 2021, has reduced flight times and saved significant fuel, showcasing AI’s ability to handle complexities beyond human capabilities.
On the ground, American Airlines’ Smart Gating system optimizes gate assignments, significantly cutting taxiing times at major airports like Dallas Fort Worth and Chicago O’Hare. This not only conserves fuel but reduces the time passengers spend waiting on the tarmac.
Beyond operational efficiencies, AI excels in customer communication. Generative AI processes vast amounts of data to craft precise, timely messages about flight statuses, greatly enhancing the travel experience by reducing uncertainty and stress for passengers. This AI capability also helps prioritize customer service responses, ensuring urgent inquiries are swiftly addressed.
From a broader perspective, AI in aviation marks a shift towards a more interconnected and intelligent global transport network. It challenges us to view technology not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a vital component in enhancing human experiences. As AI technology advances, it promises not only to improve efficiency but to fundamentally redefine comfort and dignity in air travel.
Terry Vermeylen is a technology writer, IT project manager, and solution architect with extensive experience working with the world’s biggest companies, including advising the US Navy. His writings focus on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence across various industries, particularly in aviation and operational optimization.