Clyde & Co Partners Chris Williams and Tom Tippett examine the delicate balance between embracing technological innovation and maintaining the robust cybersecurity and regulatory frameworks needed to safeguard the future of aviation.
Trust and confidence are central and unshakeable tenants of the aviation industry – an industry that by its very nature is steeped in embracing, if not pioneering, new and evolving technology. In short, a pioneering spirit underscored by a culture of safety.
Digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI) have been increasingly integrated into the aviation industry, with benefits which include: bolstering the passenger experience through baggage tracking and personal flight entertainment; predictive maintenance; and environmental protection through improved fuel economy, as a result of AI-enabled real-time flight path adjustments.
These technological advancements, with their clear and wide-ranging benefits, also bring with them a range of risks which, if not carefully navigated, can have severe consequences – which could include undermining the trust and confidence of consumers.
Addressing cyber risks in an AI-driven industry
There is a clear connection between the process of increased digitalisation and the integration of AI on the one hand, and the heightened potential for cyber risks on the other. This is certainly true for the aviation industry where the potential for risk ranges from passenger safety to supply chain disruption.
It is unrealistic to suggest that the decision for the industry is whether or not to embrace the use of AI and associated technology. AI is here to stay and can be a friend as well as foe when it comes to detecting and managing cyber risks. The only real decision is how to best mitigate the risks to ensure the benefits can be fully realised
It’s arguable that the timing has never been more pertinent for companies and industries to take ownership of mitigating cyber risks. In early 2025, the priorities of governments – certainly that of the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) – have appeared to shift.
Rather than a focus on ensuring the development of safe and ethical AI, they seem increasingly intent on attracting tech companies and on positing themselves as an AI superpower. With this in mind, an industry wide focus on cyber risk mitigation has perhaps never been timelier.
“AI is here to stay and can be both a friend and a foe when it comes to detecting and managing cyber risks.”
Building a resilient and secure aviation future
Organisations should prepare effective AI governance and cyber security practices. Equally, they should nominate an individual, ideally at board level, to maintain appropriate oversight, and ensure the agreed risk profile is maintained and consistent across the entire organisation.
This structure could be developed across the aviation industry to ensure that data (the life blood of AI) is properly used within the confines of rights, restrictions and obligations and is properly protected in a way that is both resilient and secure.
This industry level initiative to share experiences and develop common standards could serve not only to foster a culture of trust and transparency across the industry itself but crucially in the minds of consumers.
Technology will continue to evolve as individual products and platforms become obsolete, but a common standard that prioritises transparency and explainability will help ensure that the trust and confidence of consumers remains steadfast.