The World Aviation Festival 2025, a pivotal event for aviation innovation and strategy, is underway in Lisbon. From now until October 9th, more than 4,500 leaders from the aviation industry have convened at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa, accompanied by over 600 speakers who are expert leaders from major aviation companies. Attendees can also engage with more than 400 travel tech companies showcasing the latest advancements in aviation.
Throughout the first day, over 85 sessions addressed topics such as artificial intelligence, sustainability, digital transformation, cybersecurity, diversity, and more.
AI Accelerating Transformation
Artificial intelligence is recognized as the most transformative technology in aviation, rapidly reshaping the industry. David Rowan from Wired UK remarked, “AI is the fastest ever adopted technology. We shouldn’t assume that everything that was fact until now will continue to be a fact.”
Companies are urged to evaluate the appropriateness of AI for their tech-related projects. Faith Taylor, SVP of Global Citizenship and Sustainability at Kyndryl, states that utilizing AI can enhance efficiency and streamline operations, but emphasizes understanding the energy sources of data centers prior to migrating to cloud systems.
Ben Dias of IAG noted, “Sustainability is built into every AI project that we consider. We ensure that even if AI can execute a task, it doesn’t mean it should.”
Committing to Net Zero by 2050
The aviation sector is progressing toward its 2050 Net Zero goal, with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as a core component. Discussions led by ATAG and Xelerated Fifty explored funding and scaling SAF production. Nichola Bates, CEO of Xelerated Fifty, stated, “Cultural factors are hindering sustainability, not technology.”
Funding SAF projects presents various challenges, including stringent regulations and investment requirements. Haldane Dod from ATAG expressed optimism about reaching net zero, highlighting increasing collaboration among governments and stakeholders.
Innovations Announced
During the festival, DerbySoft unveiled the Global Data Network (GDN), aiming to decentralize flight distribution. AirAsia Group is set to be the inaugural airline utilizing this framework. Additionally, eSIM GO introduced its Breeze Global Travel Pass, designed to enhance loyalty program engagement, while Accelya announced a partnership with Amazon Web Services to revolutionize airline retailing.
The festival returns tomorrow with a welcome address from Minister Miguel Pinto Luz and an interview with IATA’s Willy Walsh, focusing on navigating uncertainties in airline operations with TAP Air Portugal’s Luis Rodrigues and IAG’s Luis Gallego.
