easyJet Embraces AI Technology to Manage 2,000 Flights Daily
Airline Streamlines Operations Using AI for Predictive Maintenance, Crew Planning
British airline easyJet has embedded generative AI into its operations to streamline several processes, from performing predictive maintenance to optimizing flight schedules. Although the airline uses data science and AI in its operations, easyJet aims to navigate the complexities of modern aviation with its innovative approaches.
Jetstream, the airline's most recent in-house built gen AI tool, is designed to assist pilots and crew with instant access to policies, procedures and critical information. This tool helps crew members promptly resolve operational issues and enables them to access information from eight comprehensive operational manuals, totaling approximately 3,000 pages. This capability not only enhances real-time decision-making but also improves overall operational efficiency, according to the company’s press release.
easyJet plans to extend the tool's capabilities to pilots and crew members, helping them boost customer experience by minimizing delays and enhancing service quality.
AI in easyJet's Integrated Control Center
Complementing the launch of Jetstream is easyJet's new Integrated Control Center, ICC, in Luton Airport, Bedfordshire. This facility is designed to manage nearly 2,000 flights daily using advanced AI tools to predict standby crew requirements and optimize crew planning, ensuring the right personnel are allocated to flights efficiently. With a fleet of 343 aircraft flying from 158 airports, more than 250 specialists work round-the-clock in the ICC to serve up to 300,000 customers across 35 countries. The company's AI-driven environment supports several roles, from route planners and crewing teams to those handling aircraft allocation and maintenance.
The airline's IT infrastructure is managed with a combination of in-house and outsourced resources. The software stack combines packaged applications with custom-built solutions, extensively utilizing application programming interfaces for integration. At the core of the company's e-commerce operation is its booking engine, which fills an aircraft with passengers through the easyJet website and mobile app every 10 seconds.
AI's Broader Impact on easyJet's Operations
Aside from operational improvements, this U.K.-based airline uses generative AI solutions to predict demand for food and beverages on specific routes, minimizing waste and ensuring passengers have access to their preferred choices. AI tools are also used for predicting demand on popular routes to deploy larger aircraft as required, freeing more than a million additional seats annually. This strategy not only helps to meet customer demand but also ensures lower prices, fuller flights and better operational efficiency.
With a rapid deployment team working on 250 live use cases across operations, scheduling, customer service, and more, easyJet is leading the way in AI integration within the aviation industry, said Johan Lundgren, CEO, easyJet.
Among its AI applications, the airline uses predictive maintenance to anticipate when parts need replacement, avoiding technical delays. AI also predicts the need for a standby crew, minimizing delays and reducing disruption costs. Aircraft are also equipped with software that facilitates real-time interaction with air traffic control across Europe. This precise pinpointing of aircraft locations speeds up journeys and reduces emissions, highlighting AI's role in enhancing both efficiency and sustainability.
Use Cases of Gen AI in Aviation
easyJet is not the only airline recognizing the transformative potential of gen AI. Delta Air Lines uses AI to enhance predictive maintenance, significantly reducing aircraft downtime. Southwest Airlines employs AI to optimize flight schedules and manage crew assignments, reducing delays and enhancing operational efficiency.
AirAsia uses AI-driven chatbots for customer service, streamlining the booking process and handling inquiries efficiently. At Lufthansa, AI tools are used to analyze vast amounts of data to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Air India's gen AI virtual agent, Maharaja, addresses customer queries across 1,300 domains including flight status, baggage allowances, check-in, packing restrictions, airport lounge access, frequent flyer awards, refunds and flight changes. UAE's Emirates aims to use gen AI to enhance customer experience and train cabin crew. Emirates and Amazon Web Services have signed an agreement to develop an immersive extended reality platform and capability for the Emirates Group's cabin crew training.
