Artificial Intelligence : news horizons for the aerospace sector

Abstract

In this thesis, consisting of a literature review and a field analysis, we focus our research on the value added (VA) of artificial intelligence (AI) in the aerospace sector, and in particular in the value chain of aircraft manufacturers. Following a qualitative analysis method, we conducted thirteen individual interviews with AI experts and professionals from the aerospace sector. This approach enabled us to identify opportunities for the development of AI in the short term. A number of VA emerged from this study, including: predictive maintenance, optimisation of the production phase, optimisation of aircraft fuel consumption on on-board systems and support for HR activities. The results obtained from the interviews show a favourable potential for the development of AI for all players in the aerospace sector. Nevertheless, other variables have to be taken into consideration when dealing with a topic that integrates such deep and divisive sociological, economic, legal and ethical dimensions. Therefore, this thesis also addresses the question of whether or not the aerospace sector is ready to welcome and integrate more AI into their systems. Finally, the pandemic period we are going through has created an unprecedented crisis and is completely turning the aerospace industry's cards upside down. In this context, the question of developing new intelligent systems to help crisis management takes on its full meaning.