Over 200 global aviation leaders gathered in Antalya for the highly anticipated "AI in the Sky" conference, a three-day event hosted by the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) with support from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Aviation Turkey as official media partner. The event explored the transformative role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of global aviation, covering safety, efficiency, and sustainability advancements.

At this prestigious gathering, ICAO Secretary General Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar, along with our Directors from ATB, CDI, and ANB, provided insights on artificial intelligence, big data, and innovative technologies in the aviation sector.

The event featured a Keynote Speech by Mehmet  Nane  Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Pegasus Airlines, Welcome Remarks by Prof.Dr.Kemal Yüksek, Director General of the Turkish DGCA, Opening Speech by Juan Carlos Salazar, ICAO Secretary General, and a speech by Abdulkadir URALOĞLU  Minister of Transport and Infrastructure of Türkiye.

Minister Uraloğlu Highlights Turkey's Aviation Innovations at AI in the Sky

In his keynote address, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure of Türkiye, underscored AI's tangible impact: "There is nothing artificial about artificial intelligence – it is delivering concrete results." He  underscored Turkey’s commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence and indigenous technologies in aviation. He emphasized the country’s strategic location, facilitating access to 1.5 billion people across 67 nations with a combined GDP of $51.2 trillion. "Recognizing air travel as the fastest, safest, and most comfortable mode of transportation, we have made significant investments to maximize our country’s potential," he stated.

Uraloğlu highlighted Turkey’s global aviation expansion, with flights to 58 domestic and 347 international destinations across 131 countries. "With new routes launching soon, we will increase our international network to 349 destinations by year-end. Passenger numbers are expected to reach 236 million this year and surpass 250 million in 2025," he added. Over the past 22 years, Turkey has built 32 new airports, reinforcing its position as a global aviation hub.

Türkiye's Advancements in AI-Powered Aviation

The minister stressed the critical role of AI and big data in modernizing aviation operations. "The industry has embraced digital technologies rapidly. From automated baggage sorting in the 1990s to real-time baggage tracking and mobile boarding passes today, AI is now reshaping flight operations and reducing pilot errors," he noted. AI-powered predictive maintenance will enhance aircraft longevity, cut costs, and improve safety, while big data will optimize air traffic management, reduce emissions, and personalize passenger services.

Strengthening National Security with AI. Turkey is prioritizing cybersecurity through locally developed AI solutions such as Avcı, Azad, Kasırga, Atmaca, and Kule. "In our flight operations, we utilize AI-driven indigenous software and systems, ensuring national security and technological independence," Uraloğlu stated.

Innovative Aviation Technologies: IRADE, CARE, and KDM

Turkey has launched its first domestically developed Interactive Radar Analysis and Data Display (IRADE), integrating real-time meteorological data, NOTAMs, AIP, and radar visuals into a single platform. This system is already operational at Istanbul Atatürk and Çukurova airports, with plans to expand to Dalaman. Additionally, the first national civil surveillance radar (MGR) is set to become operational at Gaziantep Airport.

The Multi-Purpose Radar Display System (CARE) is enhancing air traffic control across over 40 airports, including international deployment in Azerbaijan. Complementing these efforts, Turkey’s Corporate Transformation Model (KDM) integrates AI and big data into civil aviation, streamlining training, risk assessment, and operational efficiency in compliance with ICAO regulations.

 ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that AI and big data analytics are "not just supplementary tools but fundamental enablers of ICAO's strategic vision for safe, efficient, and sustainable aviation."

The UK Civil Aviation Authority and Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand shared insights on developing flexible regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with safety. EUROCONTROL presented its machine learning-based delay prediction system, while IATA demonstrated comprehensive data governance frameworks for artificial intelligence implementation.

Global Collaboration for a Safer, Smarter Future

Throughout the sessions, industry leaders reinforced the importance of international collaboration. Prof. Dr. Kemal Yüksek, Director General of the Turkish DGCA, described the event as "a crucial milestone in coordinating global efforts to harness AI's potential while ensuring safe and sustainable aviation development." In his closing remarks, Jorge Vargas, Director of ICAO’s Capacity Development and Implementation Bureau, urged stakeholders to make AI advancements accessible worldwide: "As we move forward with these innovations, we must ensure that no country is left behind in this technological transformation."

The "AI in the Sky" conference served as a powerful catalyst for accelerating AI adoption across the aviation sector. With AI poised to revolutionize operations, safety, and passenger experience, the industry now looks toward implementing these groundbreaking technologies on a global scale.

Key Sessions and Discussions

The conference agenda featured extensive discussions across multiple sessions:

• Artificial Intelligence and Big Data in Aviation: Experts from ICAO, including Mohamed Rahma and Michele Merkle, explored AI's current role in aviation, focusing on its potential to improve economic efficiency, safety, and security while mitigating environmental impacts.

•Policy-Making and Regulatory Considerations: Panelists from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, ICAO, and Turkish DGCA discussed the necessity of regulatory frameworks for AI governance, emphasizing global standards for decision-making in critical situations.

• AI for Operational Efficiency: Industry leaders from SunExpress Airlines, Kevyan Aviation, and EUROCONTROL shared insights on optimizing flight schedules, tracking aircraft movement, and minimizing disruptions using AI-driven analytics.

• Advancements in Training and Workforce Development: Representatives from Turkish DGCA presented on innovative training models, drone programs, and AI-driven corporate transformation strategies.

• Processing Big Data with AI Algorithms: Discussions focused on the selection of cloud infrastructures to optimize AI-based big data solutions, featuring insights from IATA and ICAO experts.

• AI for Passenger Experience and CRM: This session delved into AI’s role in enhancing personalization for travelers, with contributions from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Pegasus Airlines, and SOFTTECH.

• AI in Aviation Safety and Aircraft Maintenance: Experts from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, ICAO, and Indra presented on predictive maintenance technologies and AI-driven real-time data analysis for aircraft operations.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Jorge Vargas, Director of ICAO's Capacity Development and Implementation Bureau, emphasized the shared responsibility ahead: "As we move forward with these innovations, we must remain mindful of our shared responsibility to ensure no country is left behind in this technological transformation. I urge all of us to consider how we can make these artificial intelligence advances accessible and implementable across all regions and levels of development."

AI’s Transformative Impact on Aviation: Key Takeaways from the Conference

At the conference, key discussions revolved around how AI is reshaping the aviation industry. Experts highlighted the transformative role of AI in optimizing operations, enhancing security, improving passenger experiences, and driving sustainability. Here are some of the critical areas where AI is making a significant impact:

Forecasting & Planning: AI-driven predictive analytics go beyond traditional models, enabling both short-term forecasting and long-term strategic planning. From air traffic management to route optimization and demand forecasting, AI enhances decision-making, improving overall operational efficiency.

Security & Cyber Protection: AI is revolutionizing security with advanced biometric screening, making identity verification faster and more reliable. Additionally, sophisticated cybersecurity solutions powered by AI help prevent data breaches, while real-time threat detection systems ensure safer airports and aircraft.

Passenger Experience: AI enables hyper-personalized services, tailoring offers based on passenger preferences and travel history. Chatbots and virtual assistants streamline interactions, providing seamless support for check-in, baggage tracking, and in-flight entertainment, enhancing overall travel satisfaction.

Sustainability & Environmental Impact: AI-driven systems optimize fuel consumption, reduce carbon emissions, and support eco-friendly initiatives. From AI-assisted flight path optimization to predictive maintenance for more efficient engine performance, AI plays a crucial role in promoting greener aviation.

Revenue & Marketing Optimization: Airlines leverage AI for dynamic pricing, demand analysis, and personalized marketing strategies. AI-driven insights help maximize revenue potential by offering customized promotions and optimizing seat pricing based on real-time demand patterns.

Operations & Safety: AI enhances safety and efficiency in flight operations through predictive maintenance, optimizing crew scheduling, and even supporting autonomous navigation. These innovations reduce delays, improve aircraft reliability, and ensure smoother day-to-day operations. 

As AI continues to evolve, its influence on aviation will only grow, shaping a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future for air travel.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport Introduces AI-Powered Digital Assistant SAVVy

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ISG) has unveiled SAVVy, the first generative AI-powered digital assistant designed for airport use, at the “AI in the Sky” conference held in Antalya.

Named after ISG’s IATA code “SAW,” SAVVy is designed to provide instant responses to passenger inquiries, allowing call center staff to focus on more complex issues. Using natural language processing (NLP), SAVVy sets a new standard in airport customer service by enabling real-time, human-like conversations.

Key Features of SAVVy at Sabiha Gökçen:

Flight Information Assistance – Provides real-time updates on flight status, gates, and delays.

Parking Availability – Helps passengers check parking lot availability and guides them to available spots.

Airport Rules & Document Q&A – Answers frequently asked questions regarding airport rules, travel documents, and procedures.

Enhanced Customer Service – Delivers a seamless, automated experience, reducing wait times and improving overall passenger satisfaction.