#3 Flying on AI: The Future is Here, But Please Double-Check it!

We are constantly encountering and testing AI tools as part of our work. While the possibilities seem endless, we’ve seen both the incredible potential and the challenges this technology presents at its current stage.

AI can undoubtedly streamline processes and boost productivity for any sized business, but its accuracy often falls short, especially in high-stakes fields like aviation. We’ve even witnessed AI "hallucinations" that left us stunned—like when it suggested reverting to traditional methods like Microsoft Excel to complete the task because it couldn’t handle a simple analysis for a report. Caution should be exercised when making decisions on analysis performed by AI that has not been thoroughly reviewed by a subject matter expert.

This issue becomes even more critical as AI begins to enter the In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity (IFEC) space, where balancing innovation and reliability is vital.

AI’s performance, particularly its accuracy, is widely debated. A Google search showed reported accuracy rates ranging from ~ 60% to 95%, depending on task complexity and data quality. While 95% sounds great, the remaining 5% can have serious implications in industries like aviation, where precision is non-negotiable.

For example, a 5% error in flight operations or decision-making systems could pose serious safety risks. Even in IFEC platforms, minor malfunctions could disrupt the passenger experience or, worse, interfere with essential system processes. In such a high-visibility industry, “near enough” just isn’t good enough.

The appeal of AI in IFEC is clear: it can personalize entertainment, optimize connectivity, streamline customer service, create accessible content, predict passenger preferences, just to name a few. Its potential to elevate the passenger experience is immense.

However, the integration of AI must be carefully scrutinized. AI operates based on patterns, but in unpredictable environments like aircraft, it may struggle with edge cases or unusual scenarios. Sudden shifts in passenger behavior or unexpected system failures could trigger errors AI isn’t equipped to handle, with potentially far-reaching consequences.

Due diligence is essential when evaluating AI solutions for IFEC. Airlines and partners must rigorously test these systems, ensuring they meet or uphold the aviation industry’s strict standards. Beyond accuracy, this means assessing how AI performs under stress, how it handles exceptions, and whether built-in human oversight can catch errors before they escalate.

Hybrid systems that combine AI with human intervention may offer a safer path forward, but risk undermining automation's efficiency. These systems allow human operators to step in when AI encounters unfamiliar situations or requires human judgment. This raises key questions: who manages this in-flight for IFEC, and where do we draw the line?

Ultimately, while AI holds great promise for the future of IFEC, its adoption demands caution. AI learns from humans, and humans aren’t always right—meaning AI can inherit biases and errors. This makes oversight and rigorous testing essential to ensure safety, accuracy and reliability. By understanding its limitations and continuously refining these systems, the aviation industry can tap into AI's potential without compromising passenger safety or satisfaction. After all, in aviation, “near enough” is never good enough.

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On Your Flight Today Podcast

A podcast that talks about aircraft interiors, inflight entertainment and connectivity, and passenger experience. Brought to you by IFECtiv.

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