New tech is transforming aviation, says AIPA president

Speaking to Australian Aviation ahead of his appearance at the Australian Aviation Summit, he argued that technologies such as AI, automation, and biometrics are transforming both operational efficiency and the passenger experience. 

The aviation sector has been slow to adapt to the rapid pace of technological transformation, with many airlines still relying on outdated systems from the 1970s. 

While these systems were once foundational, 50 years on, they now present challenges in updates, security, and modern integration, hindering competitiveness and operational efficiency. 

Captain Andrew Marshall said organisations must embrace emerging technologies to keep pace with the current rate of change. 

“New technologies can make air travel faster and more convenient for passengers by allowing touchless check-in, smoother boarding and efficient processing at borders,” said Captain Marshall. 

AI offers wide-ranging benefits, from AI chatbots providing 24/7 customer service, through to the potential to analyse data for predictive maintenance, flagging potential equipment failures before they occur.

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AI algorithms are also being used to optimise flight routes, leading to more efficient travel, fuel savings, and reduced carbon emissions. 

“For pilots, it means improved flight planning, training facilities and tools,” the AIPA President added.

“It is also being applied to additional functionality with auto flight systems within the aircraft,” he said. 

While the potential for these technologies is immense, it’s critical that organisations prioritise safety, according to Captain Marshall. 

“These same technologies are being used to push Extended Minimum Crew Operations (eMCO) and Reduced Crew Operations (RCO), which could see only one pilot in the flight deck during certain phases of flight,” he said. 

Captain Marshall warns this advancement may be cause for serious safety concerns, stating: “the safest system we have is the two-pilot model. Technology should be used to assist pilots – not replace them,” he said. 

Additionally, as organisations increasingly adopt advanced technologies, security concerns become more apparent. 

Biometric systems, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, have not only streamlined the check-in and boarding process but have also strengthened security measures, reducing the risk of identity fraud.

However, this development can leave organisations vulnerable to cybersecurity and privacy concerns.

“As aviation becomes more digital, the risk of cyber attacks grows – especially when flight systems are connected and automated,” he told Australian Aviation. 

Cyber-attacks rose by 131 per cent between 2022 and 2023 across the global aviation sector, with airspace users the most affected.

In fact, Qantas recently experienced a major attack on its network, which exposed the personal records of up to six million customers. 

Other international airlines, including WestJet and Hawaiian Airlines, also recently confirmed cyber attacks on their systems, with experts predicting more carriers may be targeted. 

“Pilots and the industry must work to protect flight systems from being tampered with or remotely accessed,” he said. 

“Safety must always come first – no matter how convenient or cost-saving the tech may seem,” he concluded. 

To hear Captain Andrew Marshall speak further on the future of the aviation industry, come along to the Australian Aviation Summit 2025. 

Run in partnership with Principal Partner, Leidos, the summit will be held on Thursday, 14 August 2025 at Ilumina in Sydney. Click here to buy tickets. 

Click here to learn more about the event, including the agenda and speakers.