Streamlining Global Aviation: The Role of IT Operations Management By Sourav Sinha, CIO, Beond

Streamlining Global Aviation: The Role of IT Operations Management

Sourav Sinha, CIO, Beond | Tuesday, 21 November 2023, 12:33 IST

In an interaction with CIOTechoutlook magazine, Sourav CIO, Beond, discusses IT challenges and opportunities in aviation, emphasizing cybersecurity and cloud adoption. He describes how IoT and AI enhance maintenance and safety. Sourav also addresses cloud adoption and its benefits for aviation companies. Sourav is a technology and business visionary with a proven track record in IT management, digital transformation, and decision sciences. Prior to joining the Aviation industry, Sourav honed his skills in diverse roles and geographies with Tata Consultancy Services.

What are the primary challenges and opportunities in IT operations for the aviation industry today?

In the aviation industry, IT operations face significant challenges and opportunities. The primary hurdles lie in managing diverse end-user computing needs and ensuring data and information security. The geographical dispersion of airline operations presents a major challenge, with infrastructure spread across various airports. Supporting these operations demands reliable network connectivity, especially for airlines managing their own airport operations.

Moreover, the use of a combination of personal and company provided devices by employees further complicate IT operations. There's a need to secure various devices and applications used in different work settings, such as in offices and airports. While the industry is gradually moving towards cloud adoption, monitoring and managing cloud-based systems are essential, including tracking performance, availability, and scalability in real-time.

Crucially, data and information security (cybersecurity) take precedence. Safeguarding networks, servers, and internal processes against potential breaches caused by negligence is critical. Continuous cybersecurity awareness and the implementation of data security tools and infrastructure form an integral part of operations. The key areas requiring focus in IT operations within aviation can be segmented into the management of diverse end-user computing needs, geographical challenges, device diversity, cloud transition, and the paramount importance of data security and cybersecurity measures. These challenges offer opportunities for innovation in ensuring efficient operations, seamless connectivity, and robust security measures amidst the complex aviation landscape.

How does IT innovation impact the efficiency and safety of aviation operations?

In modern aviation, IT innovation profoundly influences both efficiency and safety. It's crucial for airlines and airports to digitalize their processes, aiming for heightened productivity and, most importantly, ensuring safe travel. Equipping frontline staff with accessible technology is key. Streamlining communication between backend systems through AI and machine learning supports informed decision-making by employees at critical touchpoints.

Continuous monitoring of business processes is vital for effective decision-making and maintaining safety standards. Digitizing safety records and employing advanced monitoring technologies aid in adhering to stringent safety practices. Regular benchmarking against industry standards further fortifies safety compliance. Ultimately, IT advancements not only enhance operational efficiency but also play a pivotal role in upholding safety as a core objective within the aviation industry.

How is the aviation industry leveraging emerging technologies like IoT and AI for maintenance and safety?

The aviation industry is harnessing emerging technologies such as IoT and AI to enhance maintenance and safety. Modern aircraft come equipped with a multitude of sensors that function like IoT devices, continuously collecting data on various components like mechanics, electronics, and hydraulics. This data is transmitted in real-time through air-to-ground communication protocols. Ground systems interpret this data stream to provide comprehensive health assessments for aircraft, both in-flight and on the ground.

By applying AI models to this data, the industry can implement proactive maintenance strategies, guaranteeing safety and minimizing aircraft downtime, ensuring a swift return to service. Additionally, these technologies allow for predictive maintenance, reducing the risk of unexpected failures and improving overall aviation safety and aircraft serviceability.

How are aviation companies adopting cloud computing and what benefits are they experiencing?

Aviation companies have been gradually embracing cloud computing, albeit at a slower pace due to legacy technology constraints. While legacy applications pose migration challenges, many airlines are prioritizing cloud adoption for newer systems. Benefits include on-demand scalability, the ability to utilize newer tools and technology, enhanced data security, and more. The cloud facilitates cost-effective data storage and processing, making it easier to handle massive datasets and analytics. Moreover, it enables efficient collaboration among airline stakeholders and streamlines operations. Although initial investments for legacy system updates may be high, the long-term advantages in terms of flexibility and innovation make cloud adoption an attractive choice for aviation companies.

What trends do you see shaping the future of IT in the aviation sector and how can startup airlines effectively leverage technology compared to established ones?

In the aviation industry, technology trends align closely with broader tech advancements across other sectors. The key challenges for established airlines involve legacy systems and stringent regulations. Legacy systems, while reliable, hinder modernization due to their complexity and the challenge of replacement. Stringent regulations necessitate manual processes, impacting digitization. However, some progress, especially accelerated by COVID, has been made in online evaluations and certifications for operating staff. Technology in aviation is leveraged for customer-centric initiatives, enhancing services, ancillary product offerings, and transparency in distribution. Additionally, the industry utilizes AI, IoT, and even 3D printing for certain non-critical part replacements to reduce inventory costs and quick turnaround.

For startups, establishing a strong yet adaptable technological foundation is crucial. Planning growth projections and making informed decisions about when to invest in advanced systems is pivotal due to resource constraints. Careful timing of technology deployment is necessary to avoid unnecessary costs or operational delays. Digitizing business processes from the outset is a priority for startup airlines. Creating a well-thought-out strategy to progressively implement digital interconnections across various operations is vital.

The aviation industry, both established players and startups, seeks to balance technological adoption with the demands of safety, regulation, and cost efficiency, aiming to enhance services and operational efficiency through digitization and advanced technologies.