Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way we understand the world. That new technology is already interacting on all fronts — and the economic and aviation sectors are no exceptions.
The use of new AI-based systems in aviation will have an impact on all technical domains and, as such, on all aviation work environments where humans are involved. Benefits in terms of efficiency, quicker solutions, high volumes of data processing, and diminishing of errors clearly reinforce the aviation market. These benefits, however, will need to conform with the European Union’s safety standards for aviation and should on no account compromise aviation safety. Safety first, since safety is EASA’s mission.
The Ethics for Artificial Intelligence in Aviation study presents the results of a survey conducted in 2024/2025 among aviation professionals regarding ethical considerations and perceptions of AI-based systems applied to aviation hypothetical future scenarios.
Some interesting results
The survey reveals aviation professionals' ethical concerns regarding AI deployment in aviation, emphasising the need for regulation and oversight.
- The survey reveals aviation professionals' ethical concerns regarding AI deployment in aviation, emphasizing the need for regulation and oversight.
- AI is transforming aviation, enhancing efficiency and data processing.
- Aviation professionals express uncertainty about AI's ethical soundness, with a mean comfort, trust, and acceptance rating of 4.4 on a scale of 7.
- Two-thirds of respondents do not accept at least one of the eight hypothetical AI scenarios presented.
- Key concerns include AI performance, negative consequences for humans, data protection, accountability, and potential threats to aviation safety.
- EASA is urged to oversee AI regulation and continue liaising with industry partners; a second public survey is planned for broader feedback.
Check the study for further details.