Representative ImageThe air transport industry invested a record $50.8 billion in technology in 2025, according to SITA’s 2025 Air Transport IT Insights report. However, the investment's full potential is hindered by a lack of data flow between systems and partners. This issue is exacerbated by ongoing disruptions in the Middle East, highlighting the need for improved data coordination to enhance operational resilience.
Airlines and airports are prioritising data-driven decision-making, with 83% of airlines and 89% of airports identifying it as a strategic priority. Despite this, 49% of airlines cite data integration as a primary barrier, impacting their ability to manage disruptions effectively. The report notes that flight delays alone cost the industry $30 billion annually, underscoring the financial impact of operational inefficiencies.
AI is increasingly used to manage disruptions, with 63% of airlines employing it for operations control. However, its effectiveness is limited by data alignment issues. Only 17% of airlines use AI for real-time turnaround monitoring, though airports are closing this gap, with 53% now applying AI to aircraft turnaround.
Cybersecurity has become a critical focus, with 71% of airports ranking it as their top IT priority. The integration of systems across operations increases the risk of cyber incidents affecting shared data, prompting 64% of airports to use AI for early anomaly detection.
Digital identity solutions are expanding, with 64% of airlines planning to use their own credentials. However, 57% of airlines cite airport cooperation as essential for scaling these initiatives. The report concludes that data coordination remains a key constraint across AI, cybersecurity, digital identities, and sustainability, limiting the industry's ability to maximise its technology investments
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