IATA Hosts World Data Symposium to Spur Transformation in Data, Technology, and Cybersecurity
The International Air Transport Association's event in Singapore will convene leaders to drive innovation in aviation.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will host its 2026 World Data Symposium (WDS) in Singapore on April 8th and 9th.
The Symposium will convene top executives in data, technology, and cybersecurity to explore use cases to foster transformation across three main themes:
- Utilizing data for operational efficiency and enhanced decision-making.
- Enhancing cybersecurity preparedness throughout the aviation sector.
- Employing AI and automation to improve operational performance and passenger experience.
According to Kim Macaulay, IATA’s senior VP for information and data: “Data is one of aviation’s most powerful strategic assets. The WDS is where professionals can exchange insights and progress towards a smarter, safer, and more connected future. This second edition will delve into how AI integrates into aviation’s digital evolution and focus on cyber resilience.”
What to Expect at WDS 2026
The Symposium program will encompass discussions such as:
- CEO Panel: Digital Transformation in Aviation
- Open AI in the Aviation Industry
- Securing the Digital Flight Path: Agentic AI, Cloud Security, and Aviation Resilience
- Digital Twins in Aviation and Airports
- Navigating Today’s Turbulence, Securing Tomorrow’s Skies
- From Arenas to Airports: How Smart Stadium Tech Can Inspire Aviation
- K-innovation Stories from Korea
Singapore Airlines will participate with insights from Goh Choon Phong (CEO) and George Wang (Senior VP for IT). IATA’s team will also feature Willie Walsh, Kim Macaulay, and Marie Owens Tomsen. Other distinguished speakers include Capt. Nasaruddin A. Bakar (Malaysia Aviation Group), Chai Eamsiri (Thai Airways), Olivier Beaujean (Cargolux), Masaya Fukushima (Japan Airlines), Pratik Patel (DHL), Yanling Liu (Changi Airport), Bum-ho Kim (Incheon International), Pablo Fernandez Kruk (Golant), David Fairman (Netskope), and Andrew Sellers (Confluent).
