SITA’s 2025 Air Transport IT Insights report reveals that the coordination, between teams and systems of operational data is essential when striving for efficiency in operations.
The Lack of Operational Coordination Affects Flight Delays
One of the obstacles present in the air transport industry is the lack of coordination between departments and systems, and this has been seen as a financial burden for airlines and airports. 83% of airlines and 89% of airports prioritise decision-making based on shared data, and this is reflected in the increase in investment in both airlines’ and airports’ IT systems.
“We are publishing this research at a moment when the industry is under significant pressure. Across every area we measured, the same constraint emerges: where data does not flow freely across systems and partners, investment cannot fully deliver what it was designed to unlock. That constraint carries a higher cost today, but also a clear opportunity to emerge stronger,” said the CEO of SITA, David Lavorel.
According to IATA, flight delays are responsible for $30 billion in revenue in the industry, and the prevention of these delays is being remedied with the increasing use of technology. 46% of airlines are upgrading their data coordination systems to increase connectivity between systems and partners, and have an end goal of preventing delays through early intervention.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Operational Coordination
In the past, Artificial Intelligence (AI) was generally used in separate and individual systems, instead of using it to promote cross-departmental connectivity and communication. SITA’s report finds that 63% of airlines have now begun utilising AI in disruption prevention, managing constraints across various departments to increase efficiency.
“Aviation is deploying AI with real ambition. But the survey is clear: the primary barrier to maximizing that investment is the lack of data integration across the operation. The technology is there. The data infrastructure to connect it often is not,” Lavorel said.
In 2024, 51% of airports utilised AI in cybersecurity in order to minimise the amount of time it takes to address delays, and this figure is up by 13% this year, increasing the percentage of airports utilising this technology to 64%. This increase shows airports’ shift in focus, and it is consistent with the figure that 71% of airports worldwide are now prioritising cybersecurity in their IT operations.
Are you looking forward to the potential of experiencing more punctual travel, thanks to airlines and airports striving to further decrease the amount of flight delays? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
