Cybersecurity and sustainability are identified as priorities by airlines in a “pivotal moment” for the industry.
Airlines and airports in Europe are especially focused on introducing measures to counter cyber threats, according to a new report by aviation IT firm Sita.
The study reveals that two thirds (66%) of airlines and 73% of airports mention it as one of their top three areas of focus, although there is no breakdown of UK efforts.
However, this confirms how important it is becoming to protect critical systems and passenger data as cyber threats get more advanced, Sita noted.
About half of airlines and three-quarters of airports are starting their digital transformation by upgrading IT infrastructure, moving to the cloud, and safeguarding data.
Meanwhile, biometrics and AI are enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency making it the natural next step.
Sustainability is also leading the way as the industry pushes toward net-zero emissions by 2050.
Three quarters of airlines are using real time software for flight optimisation, weather risk assessment, and flight operations, and more than half use real time software to calculate carbon emissions.
On top of that, 62% of airlines are working with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) suppliers – an the area that has seen the biggest year-on-year growth.
Sita chief executive David Lavorel said: “This year’s findings highlight a pivotal moment for the aviation industry. As cyber threats become more complex, airlines and airports are taking decisive action to protect their operations and passengers.
“At the same time, biometrics and AI tech are simplifying the travel experience, helping the industry meet growing demand, and build resilience for the future. It’s clear that the air transport industry is going through a transformation, and these numbers prove it.”
He added: “Sustainability is essential for the future of aviation. It’s a responsibility we must embrace to drive lasting change.
“The adoption of tech like flight optimisation software and SAF systems shows real progress in reducing carbon footprints. By combining these efforts with advanced analytics, the industry is on track to hit its environmental goals.”
A recent report by aviation IT firm Sita has highlighted cybersecurity and sustainability as top priorities for airlines in Europe. The study shows that a majority of airlines and airports are focusing on measures to counter cyber threats, with two-thirds of airlines and 73% of airports mentioning it as one of their top three areas of focus.
As cyber threats become more advanced, protecting critical systems and passenger data is becoming increasingly important. Many airlines and airports are starting their digital transformation by upgrading IT infrastructure, moving to the cloud, and safeguarding data. Biometrics and AI are also being used to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.
In terms of sustainability, the industry is making strides towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Three-quarters of airlines are using real-time software for flight optimization, weather risk assessment, and flight operations, while more than half are using real-time software to calculate carbon emissions. Additionally, 62% of airlines are working with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) suppliers.
Sita's chief executive, David Lavorel, emphasized the importance of these findings, stating that the aviation industry is at a pivotal moment. He highlighted the industry's efforts to protect operations and passengers from cyber threats, as well as the use of technology to simplify the travel experience and reduce carbon footprints. By combining these efforts with advanced analytics, the industry is on track to meet its environmental goals.
