The International Air Transport Association (IATA) successfully concluded its inaugural World Data Symposium (WDS) with a broad consensus on three key priorities:

1. To use data even more intensely to derive value: With improvements in artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, the contribution of aviation’s rich data collection will drive improvements in efficiency, passenger experience, and sustainability. The industry needs to work together to address the opportunity by establishing clear data ownership structures, investing in new solutions and attracting talent.

2. To innovate by integrating technology solutions: Innovations such as cloud computing, automation, and digital identity are proving their value in improving efficiency while reducing costs. The industry needs to work together to modernize standards and optimize this potential by integrating solutions so that the passenger journey is seamless, from booking to baggage delivery.

3. To build cyber resilience: The need for robust cybersecurity grows in tandem with the use of technology, particularly as it integrates various players in the travel and air cargo value chains. The industry must work together to share information even more efficiently to protect critical infrastructure, ensure data integrity, and safeguard passenger trust.

“The inaugural IATA WDS reinforced the critical role of data, technology, and cybersecurity in shaping the future of aviation. It also clearly demonstrated that by working together across the aviation value chain to share information and modernize standards, we create enormous potential to benefit our customers with even more efficient travel and shipping experiences. This was our first WDS, but with so much potential evolving every day, it will not be our last,” said Kim Macaulay, IATA’s Chief Information and Data Officer.

WDS was hosted by Aer Lingus in Dublin and welcomed more than 700 participants.