Artificial Intelligence (AI) is currently taking the world by storm, rapidly transforming industries across the globe—from banking and marketing to agriculture. Aviation is no exception. This powerful technology is streamlining and revolutionising numerous processes within the sector. From the skies above South Africa to the tech hubs of Nigeria, AI is reshaping airline operations, redefining how travellers engage with brands, and strengthening the region’s position in the global technology landscape.
But just how transformative is AI in aviation, and what immediate changes can the industry expect to see? We explore both the near-term and long-term shifts that AI is driving in the sector—and examine how some airlines are already embracing this technology.
Global AI is Growing at a Rapid Pace
AI is no longer just the latest buzzword, it’s now an integrated part of all our lives. And not only has it become a prominent feature in day-to-day activity, but it is also expected to continue growing.
The global artificial intelligence in aviation market was valued at USD 1,015.87 million in 2024 and is expected to grow from USD 1,493.02 million in 2025 to USD 32,500.82 million by 2033, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 46.97% over the forecast period (2025–2033).
Interestingly, the fastest-growing markets in the world are in the Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa). However, the adoption of AI in many South American and African nations may be hampered by limited access to advanced technology and difficult economic conditions.
In response to increasing security threats at airports, Middle Eastern countries and airport authorities worldwide have significantly strengthened security measures. AI-driven systems are playing a vital role in supporting airport authorities to address safety concerns. Artificial intelligence, data analytics, and machine learning are essential tools in managing and analysing passenger data.
The use of biometric technologies—such as facial recognition, iris scanning, and other identifiers—at check-in points has helped reduce queues and waiting times, contributing to growth in airlines in countries like Bahrain. Although still relatively new, these technologies are increasingly being adopted to support various aspects of aviation, including data security, risk management, and border control operations.
AI Currently Dominates Customer Service
A recent study by Amadeus clearly shows the growing role of AI in the global travel industry, with 69% of respondents citing customer service chatbots as the most common application of generative AI. But the tech is no longer confined to virtual assistants. According to Statista, more than half of travel businesses are also using AI for marketing, product development, and operations, while just over a quarter have integrated it into human resources.
This trend is clearly visible in Africa, where regional players are increasingly embracing AI, not as a luxury, but as a necessity. Airports and airlines increasingly use artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their customer service. And, demand for this AI assistance starts before customers book their flights and long before they get to the actual airport.
Today’s travellers are choosing destinations based on the promise of rich and memorable experiences. According to McKinsey’s State of Travel Survey (2024), experience-led factors—such as the quality of local activities (63%), dining options (62%), and cultural authenticity (58%)—now rival traditional considerations like cost and accessibility. This marks a clear shift: for modern travellers, the journey is no longer just about escape, but about meaningful connections with people, places, and stories.
But, AI Doesn’t Stop There
Machine learning, AI and automation are creeping into more than just customer-facing technologies. They look to transform both predictive maintenance and air traffic control (ATC). Companies such as Thales and Airbus are already integrating AI into these areas. By optimising systems, AI can enhance the efficiency and environmental sustainability of airline operations.
In air traffic control, AI streamlines tasks through the use of automatic speech recognition, easing the workload for controllers. Meanwhile, machine learning supports system resilience, predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, and performance monitoring.
Smart airport systems are increasingly using machine learning algorithms to monitor complex ground handling operations, detect potential safety risks in real time, and issue alerts when maintenance or repairs exceed expected durations. This represents one of the growing applications of AI within airport environments.
Real-time object-tracking systems are also being employed to monitor large groups of passengers, enhancing both operational oversight and safety. These technologies play a crucial role in supporting ground staff and improving overall efficiency.
London’s Gatwick Airport was among the first major airports to adopt computer vision technology to reduce aircraft turnaround times and improve safety for ground personnel. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the adoption of artificial intelligence in airports, highlighting its potential across a wide range of operational functions.
Companies Are Eyeing AI Growth in Africa
Tech multinationals are eyeing the potential of AI in the region’s potential and getting in on the action. In early 2025, Microsoft pledged a further $298 million in AI and data centre infrastructure in South Africa, with a bold goal to train 1 million South Africans in AI and cybersecurity by 2026. This builds on the company’s $1 billion investment in local data centres to date.
“AI and local know-how will unlock potential,” said Microsoft Vice-Chair Brad Smith, underlining the company’s long-term commitment to the continent.
FlySafair, one of South Africa’s most prominent low-cost carriers, has been at the forefront of AI adoption in African aviation. The airline has used AI-powered automation to dramatically reduce the time it takes to process bulk flight bookings—from 30 minutes to just 5. The result? Smoother customer experiences and more efficient internal workflows. It’s not just about speed. The airline’s automation systems have also streamlined billing processes for partner flights, reducing manual workload while safeguarding revenue streams.
The Sky’s the Limit
With supportive policy, strategic investment, and a willingness to experiment, AI could become the jet fuel propelling Africa’s aviation sector forward. The technology is not a silver bullet, but it is a tool, one that, when wielded wisely, could help the continent navigate its own unique flight path into the future. As always, Africa will chart its own course. And this time, AI may be the co-pilot.
