Latest news with #BritishAirways
Forbes
6 hours ago
- Automotive
- Forbes
How IAG's Home-Grown AI Could Save Airlines Millions
AI and technology enhancing aircraft maintenance In an industry where operational efficiency is measured in minutes and margins, the potential of artificial intelligence to streamline airline maintenance logistics is more than an optimization exercise, it's a necessity. That's why the International Airlines Group (IAG) developed its new AI-powered Engine Optimisation System. Designed in-house and now implemented with Aer Lingus, the system is poised to roll out across IAG's other airlines British Airways, Iberia, Vueling, and LEVEL by year's end. Turning a Complex Problem into an AI Challenge The system, built within IAG's London and Barcelona-based AI Labs, is engineered to solve a particularly complex problem: how to schedule engine maintenance in a way that simultaneously satisfies regulatory mandates, part availability, labor constraints, and operational continuity. Every commercial jet engine must meet strict regulatory intervals while also fitting around flight schedules, parts inventory and shop capacity. Planners juggle thousands of variables, yet one late part or an unexpected route change can unwind months of work. By running millions of 'what-if' scenarios every day, IAG's new system re-plans in minutes instead of weeks, helping the airline avoid Aircraft On Ground emergencies serious enough to ground the airplane until it's fixed and maintenance-related passenger delays. The system is designed to update maintenance schedules dynamically, adapting in real time as new data flows in. 'By applying advanced algorithms, we're making our engine maintenance programme more efficient. We are avoiding unnecessary maintenance delays to ensure that our fleet is available and in service,' explains Ben Dias, IAG's chief AI scientist. 'The system gives our people the data and tools they need for smarter planning and better teamwork.' An In-House Approach to AI System Development Many organizations license predictive-maintenance dashboards from OEMs or software vendors. IAG chose a different path: keep the data, keep the code and tune the algorithms to its own mixed fleet. Dias' team started with the workhorse CFM56 engine, a common type in narrow-body aircraft, to prove the concept before moving to other engine families. Owning the intellectual property matters for two reasons. First, IAG can refine the model as its network, fleet mix and shop capacity change. Second, the group avoids vendor lock-in, critical when an engine swap between BA and Iberia can hinge on data portability. AI Making an Increasing Impact in the Airline Industry IAG's efforts align with similar changes happening in aviation. Lufthansa Technik uses its Aviatar platform for predictive diagnostics that spots repetitive fault codes and suggests fixes, part of a suite used by 100-plus airlines. Delta Air Lines' APEX engine-health system crunches real-time sensor data; the carrier claims parts-demand accuracy has jumped from 60% to 90%. Air France-KLM is working with Google Cloud to layer generative-AI tools onto its existing 'Prognos' analytics stack for both maintenance and network planning. Where IAG differs is its focus on prescriptive optimization. The model does not simply predict when an engine might need service, it chooses the slot that minimises ground time across a 700-aircraft portfolio. Taking a broader look, the financial upside becomes clear. With the industry set to spend over $100 billion annually on maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) by 2030 according to Strategic Market Research's Aircraft MRO Market Size & Forecast report, even single-digit gains have massive implications. McKinsey estimates AI-driven maintenance could cut costs by 20% and eliminate up to half of unscheduled repairs. There's also a sustainability edge. By reducing last-minute swaps and repositioning flights, the system can lower emissions, helping airlines meet environmental targets while saving money. A smoother shop schedule reduces repositioning flights and last-minute charters, lowering fuel burn and CO₂. Obstacles on the AI Taxiway Still, there are bumps ahead. AI relies on clean, consistent data, and aviation data can be messy. Airlines still wrestle with inconsistent logbook entries, paper-based records and parts tagged under multiple naming conventions. IAG spent months cleaning historical files and standardizing schemas before training the model. Integrating these systems with existing workflows, especially under strict safety regulations, adds another layer of complexity. Change management is equally tough. Engineers used to white-board plans may bristle at a probabilistic recommendation engine. That is why the system presents its schedule, along with the factors that drove each choice, for human sign-off. Trust builds when planners can challenge the AI, tweak a variable and watch the plan update in seconds. Getting the data right, and earning trust from frontline teams, will be key to long-term success. Where the Airline Industry Is Heading AI developments in the industry could push things even further. Technicians could share anonymized model insights across member airlines in a federated-learning loop. This would allow datasets from different airlines and locations to improve each other without exposing commercially sensitive details. Longer term, this could feed the optimization layer with live flight-ops and crew-roster data so that disruption management and maintenance planning draw from a single source of truth. If that sounds ambitious, keep in mind that pilots once lugged over 30 pounds of binders to the cockpit in large black roll-aboard suitcases. The electronic flight bag (EFB), a tablet-class device that stores charts, manuals and performance calculators in digital form, changed that. Today they are table stakes. A decade from now, an AI-based scheduler that treats engines, slots and spares as a living puzzle may feel just as ordinary, and IAG will have gained a multi-year head start.
The Independent
8 hours ago
- Business
- The Independent
New cabin baggage rules on the cards
The European Parliament 's transport and tourism committee has voted to mandate airlines to allow passengers two pieces of cabin baggage, a personal item and small hand luggage, without additional fees. This initiative aims to prevent budget airlines from imposing "unjustified extra costs" on travellers who currently face charges for larger cabin bags or are limited to one small personal item. Budget airlines, including Wizz Air and Ryanair, oppose the proposal, arguing it would increase costs for millions, slow down boarding processes, and undermine their low-cost operational models due to limited aircraft space. The proposal will proceed to a full vote by the European Parliament, followed by "trilogue" negotiations involving the Council and Commission, indicating a lengthy process before potential implementation. While some airlines like British Airways and Jet2 already offer more generous cabin baggage allowances, a new EU law could lead to harmonised baggage rules across European flights, impacting many UK-EU routes operated by EU carriers.
Telegraph
10 hours ago
- Business
- Telegraph
Heathrow warns of slowdown in travel from America
Heathrow has warned that economic uncertainty unleashed by Donald Trump's trade war has sparked a slowdown in travel from the United States. In an update to investors, Europe's busiest airport said it is beginning to see indications of a drop in bookings on transatlantic routes most favoured by business travellers. Heathrow said that while demand among Britons for leisure flights to the US remains strong, it has 'observed some early signs of softness on business-heavy routes'. It added: 'The impact of the economic uncertainty across North America has made this market more challenging so we are maintaining a close watching brief on traffic trends.' Heathrow's comments suggest that demand in the world's biggest corporate and premium travel market is beginning to be undermined by Mr Trump's trade war and its impact on business confidence. They said that while transatlantic routes continue to represent a core strength of the network it serves, there is an 'overhanging uncertainty' about how well they will hold up going into the summer peak. Slight recovery However, US passenger volumes still increased from January through May compared with a year earlier, it said, while cargo volumes jumped amid increased trade activity ahead of the president's liberation day tariffs announcement in April. British Airways (BA) has previously reported softer ticket sales for its economy class cabins on flights from the US, though Luis Gallego, chief executive of parent company International Airlines Group, said this month that demand was recovering. Virgin Atlantic also said in March that it was seeing a lower level of bookings made in the US, with a few weeks where it had turned negative. Heathrow predicted that passenger numbers will increase 0.5pc this year to 84.2m, while warning of a 3pc drop in operating profits as it absorbs the impact of the Government's National Insurance tax raid. Thomas Woldbye, Heathrow's chief executive, said punctuality at the airport has improved to the best level among European hubs, while almost 97pc of passengers were now clearing security in less than five minutes. Mr Woldbye had faced criticism over service standards from Heathrow Reimagined, a lobby group that includes BA and Virgin and is demanding a reset of the charging mechanism for flying from the airport ahead of the construction of a third runway. It is seeking the establishment of a new body that will give airlines more say over infrastructure spending, and a move to competition between Heathrow's terminals. The Civil Aviation Authority will set out the scope of a review of the charging system as early as next week.
Daily Record
11 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Record
Major Edinburgh Airport change for passengers flying this summer
Holidaymakers flying from the country's busiest hub can take advantage of a new addition this summer Passengers flying from Edinburgh Airport this summer can now make use of a new lounge after the opening of Escape Lounges in its first ever Scottish location. Fliers who are heading off on holiday or work trips can access the lounge before they board their flights either by pre booking online or on the day. The major addition to Scotland's biggest and busiest airport was announced today, Friday, June 27. Airport bosses have said passengers will get to experience a 'final taste of Scotland' before taking off. Prices start from £39.99 per person for the lounge, which is now open. They say the lounge reflects the city's unique character and natural beauty. Referred to as the greenest city in the UK, Edinburgh's connection to nature is reflected in the lounge's design, where deep greens evoke its lush parks and gardens, and sandy tones mirror its historic stone buildings. The lounge's design blends Edinburgh's history and modernity, with integrated planters and greenery reflecting the city's seamless mix of tradition and contemporary flair. And the walls show artistic representations of the city, from the medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town to the vibrant waterfront of Leith. Passengers can now visit the airport lounge if booked online in advance from £39.99 per person, guaranteeing a comfortable start to their journey, or can opt for walk-in access on their day of travel for £49 per person. Escape Lounges also offers complimentary access to numerous cardholder members, including Priority Pass and DragonPass. Fliers will find it next to Gate 4 and the British Airways Lounge. It is open daily from 4:00am to 10:00pm, offering passengers from all airlines a space to relax and eat and drink before boarding their flight. It also has a selection of complimentary food and drink, including seasonal breakfasts and locally inspired dishes and drinks, high-speed Wi-Fi, power outlets and real-time flight information. And guests can take advantage of a digital library which has access to more than 7,000 global publications and areas designated for work and relaxation. Rob Hassard, Head of Growth, Experiences for CAVU, the parent company of Escape Lounges said: "Our mission is to transform the airport experience, and we're thrilled to be opening our newest Escape Lounge at Edinburgh Airport. " Our elevated offering gives all guests flying out of the region the chance to enjoy an Escape to Remember – through a combination of exceptional food and drink, attentive service, and a beautifully designed lounge, all inspired by the local region.' Gail Taylor, chief commercial officer (XAero) at Edinburgh Airport said: ' We are committed to elevating the travel experience for our passengers, and the opening of this brand-new Escape Lounge - the first of its kind in Scotland - is another significant step forward for us "We're particularly proud of how Edinburgh and Scotland are reflected throughout the lounge, ensuring our passengers enjoy a final taste of Scotland before they depart. "We look forward to welcoming them and helping them start their journey in a relaxed and comfortable setting.' To learn more or to pre-book your stay, visit Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Newsweek
14 hours ago
- Newsweek
Couple Fly Off for 'Relaxing' Vacation, Wake Up to Nightmare Mid-Flight
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. A couple jetting off for a "relaxing" vacation together in Dubai got a shock when they woke mid-flight to discover they were instead heading to Zurich in Switzerland. Ruby Croxford, 24, and her partner Jack, who are from Hampshire in the U.K., had been looking forward to spending 10 nights together in the United Arab Emirates. "We were going to Dukes The Palm in Dubai," Croxford told Newsweek. "Everyone said how great Dubai was, so we wanted to see what it was all about and have a nice relaxing break." The trip started out relaxing enough and, a couple of hours into their British Airways flight, both Ruby and Jack nodded off, assuming that they would eventually wake up in Dubai—but that wasn't the case. "We both woke up at one point about 2 a.m. U.K. time and the flight map time had increased to three hours but was appearing to show that we were stuck near Cairo," Croxford said. "We thought it was a glitch with the system so went back to sleep." Yet, within a couple more hours, they would wake again to discover their plane was being forced to make a dramatic U-turn. "Just before 5 a.m. we woke up to a captain's announcement, we thought we were coming into land, but he told us that the U.S. had attacked Iran overnight," Croxford said. "Air-traffic control and national security had come to a tough decision and, for our own safety, we had to turn around. He apologized and said that our safety was our main priority." From left: Jack and Ruby flash peace signs; but the couple ended up in Switzerland. From left: Jack and Ruby flash peace signs; but the couple ended up in Switzerland. TikTok/rubytuesday30_ British Airways moved to cancel flights from London Heathrow to Dubai and Doha on Sunday in the wake of President Donald Trump's missile strike on Iran. Flights that had already taken off, meanwhile, were diverted. A statement from British Airways to British newspaper The Telegraph said: "As a result of recent events, we have adjusted our flight schedule to ensure the safety of our customers and crew, which is always our top priority. We are contacting our customers to advise them of their options while we work through this developing situation." Croxford wouldn't be heading home just yet, though. "We didn't have enough fuel to get back to the U.K. so we were diverted to Switzerland," she said. "The crew had worked their maximum hours so needed a break before they could fly again. We were told we would either have to wait until the crew rested to return back to Heathrow or wait until another crew were flown to Switzerland." Read more Gen Z on vacation captures moment hundreds of missiles fly toward Israel Gen Z on vacation captures moment hundreds of missiles fly toward Israel Despite the upheaval and uncertainty, Croxford was full of praise for the way staff on the flight handled the situation. "They were calm and very attentive, answering people's questions, and they also helped a young boy who needed to get home to Dubai," she said. "I take my hat off to them as some customers were moaning at them." That didn't stop Croxford from being left "completely shocked" at what was unfolding. "We didn't actually know what had happened until we connected to the WiFi on the plane and told our family. They explained everything and told us to come straight home and not get back on a flight to Dubai." Croxford said how other passengers were "panicking" and "arguing with staff" when they arrived in Switzerland. They felt differently, though. "We were just thankful and grateful to be out of the situation and safe. Switzerland is beautiful, and we did feel safe landing there," she said. After a couple of hours' delay, the couple departed back on a flight bound for London before heading straight home. It made for quite the experience and one Croxford felt compelled to share to social media in a video posted under the handle @rubytuesday_. At the time of writing, the clip has been watched over 579,000 times. And there was a happy ending. Croxford was able to get a full refund for their holiday to Dubai, and the couple are now off enjoying the sunshine in Tenerife. "We won't be returning to Dubai anytime soon; we want to wait until everything has calmed down and settled," Croxford said. Newsweek has reached out to British Airways for comment.
