Mar 3, 2026 Jan Uphues
ShareArtificial Intelligence is one of the most discussed topics on platforms like LinkedIn today. Questions such as "What exactly is AI and what can it do?" and "How can we benefit from it now?" are constantly being asked. INFORM went one step further at its AI Aviation Summit, held on February 24, 2026, at the Hyatt Place Frankfurt Airport.
The summit brought together aviation professionals and AI experts from around the world – including the US, Singapore, and several European countries – to discuss how Process AI can improve decision-making in aviation operations. INFORM's Process AI learns from and contextualizes operational processes to guide – and where appropriate execute – decisions, but always with people in control.
Holger Hoos, Humboldt Professor for AI at RWTH Aachen University, opened the summit with a keynote on how AI is transforming industries and society. Using practical examples, he demonstrated how humans can leverage AI more effectively in their work – and why recognizing the technology's limitations early is key to success.
From Vision to Implementation – Process AI in Action
Under the motto “Plan. Predict. Perform.”, INFORM showcased how Process AI can strategically shape tomorrow's aviation starting today. The event focused less on showcasing technology and more on creating measurable business impact. Attendees learned how intelligent systems can support predictive workforce management, optimize data-driven operations, and enhance passenger experience. The overarching principle was clear: AI must be applied thoughtfully – with deep industry knowledge and a focus on real-world outcomes – to deliver value.
The summit's program was structured around engaging formats: keynotes, expert panels, and interactive breakout sessions allowed participants to explore best practices of Process AI in aviation operations. A central theme was how INFORM's approach integrates AI directly into operational workflows – not as a standalone tool, but as part of existing processes. One highlight was Airport 2040 – a Vision About Future Total Airport Management, which explored how AI will help airports evolve in the coming decade, always with people at the center of decision-making.
A Gathering of Minds and Ideas
The discussions and networking sessions enabled direct exchanges between aviation professionals, AI experts, and INFORM specialists. The opportunity to bring together diverse perspectives – from operational ground staff to strategic innovation managers – proved invaluable in identifying areas where Process AI can deliver immediate benefits.
One recurring theme in feedback was the practical added value the summit provided for everyday work. Many guests appreciated how theoretical concepts were turned into actionable insights. Attendee Murray Galvin, IT Product Owner at Swissport, summed it up perfectly: "I’ve been interested in a couple of things we’ve seen today. One of them is about Process AI – I can see straight away there are some huge potential benefits there. Another interesting topic was using AI to help with the turnaround management, including the camera technology to pick up the events during the turnaround."
The AI Aviation Summit was a catalyst for real progress in aviation AI. Our discussions with global industry leaders have already inspired new collaborations and concrete initiatives that help airports and airlines unlock efficiency gains, improve passenger experiences, and make smarter operational decisions.
Recognition and Outlook
The success of the first INFORM AI Aviation Summit was reflected in the positive feedback from participants. Johannes Richenhagen, SVP INFORM, Aviation Division, expressed deep appreciation for the attendees and the reception the event received: "The AI Aviation Summit was a catalyst for real progress in aviation AI. Our discussions with global industry leaders have already inspired new collaborations and concrete initiatives that help airports and airlines unlock efficiency gains, improve passenger experiences, and make smarter operational decisions. I’m deeply grateful to all participants for contributing their insights, which clearly showed that when we combine AI innovation with human expertise, we create lasting impact that goes far beyond this event." This statement underscores INFORM's commitment to fostering long-term collaboration to its customers, such as Lufthansa, American Airlines, Swissport and WISAG.
Beyond the formal sessions, the atmosphere during the networking breaks and the joint dinner was characterized by lively discussions and forming new partnerships. Attendees emphasized the smooth organization, the welcoming environment, and the balance between knowledge transfer and personal connections.
The Human Side of Process AI in Aviation
The summit's spirit captured what makes INFORM's approach distinctive: while technology plays a central role, human insight, creativity, and collaboration remain at the heart of successful digital transformation. This aligns with INFORM's belief that every decision should be the best decision – enabled by AI but always made by people. A poll conducted during the event confirmed this principle: participants wanted people to continue to be responsible for decisions in daily ground operations that are critical to safety.
From predictive maintenance to gate allocation optimization, from staffing efficiency to passenger service improvements, each discussion pointed back to the real drivers of innovation: the people who ask the right questions and make smarter decisions, supported by Process AI that integrates seamlessly into their workflows. INFORM's AI Aviation Summit demonstrated that it is possible to bridge advanced technology with human expertise in a way that benefits the entire aviation ecosystem.
About our Expert
Jan Uphues
Marketing Manager
From the exhilarating rush of his very first flight, Jan Uphues was captivated by the world of aviation. Though that maiden voyage had its jittery moments, it set the course for a lifelong passion. Starting at INFORM in 2018, he combined it with his second love: crafting compelling content.
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