Aviation – Autonomy, Connectivity, and Hi-tech Manufacturing

In the last 15 years, commercial aviation has boomed, and over the next 20 years the number of global air passengers is expected to nearly double again. Aerial mobility is certainly taking off – and technology with it.

Advancing Aviation Autonomy: From Smart Automation to the One-Pilot Cockpit

Autonomy is a hot topic in the aerospace industry, and it begins with automation. While automation is nothing new in aviation, innovations such as autopilot have existed for decades. However, its complexity is increasing significantly. 

Advances in computer vision, sensor fusion, data processing and machine learning allow for more sophisticated systems like automatic take-off and landing.In the future, air crews will be supported by dynamic decision support systems, changing how humans and machines interact. In the future, air crews will be supported by dynamic decision support systems, changing how humans and machines interact. Even as full autonomy nears, pilots will remain onboard—but their number may decrease.

In the future, air crews will be supported by dynamic decision support systems, changing how humans and machines interact.

“The next frontier is the one pilot cockpit,” driven by operating cost reduction and pilot shortage solutions. Even as full autonomy nears, pilots will remain onboard—but their number may decrease. “The next frontier is the one pilot cockpit,” driven by operating cost reduction and pilot shortage solutions.

Connectivity in Aviation: Powering Advanced Aircraft Automation and In-Flight Wi-Fi

Advanced aircraft automation depends on powerful connectivity. Today’s aircraft require robust communication with increasingly complex ground-based support systems. More bandwidth, better antennas, and new radio frequencies are being integrated to support this.

Not just for the crew, passenger expectations for onboard Wi-Fi mirror ground services. Increased data flow necessitates strong cyber security measures and expanded satellite communication capabilities. Some satellite providers are even preparing to offer 5G over satellite.

Akkodis has supported a major aircraft manufacturer in installing a KU band large antenna for onboard Wi-Fi, in collaboration with telecom and airline partners.

Smart Manufacturing in Aviation: Embracing AR, VR, IoT, and Automation to Meet Soaring Passenger Demand

With global air passenger numbers set to double as per the IATA, aviation must adopt smarter product development and manufacturing. Smart Industry concepts, including AR, VR, real-time tracking, and automated quality monitoring, are revolutionizing production lines.

With global air passenger numbers set to double as per the IATA, aviation must adopt smarter product development and manufacturing.

Digital tools optimize supply chains, reduce costs, and boost resilience and flexibility. From training operators in immersive environments to using IoT for real-time performance analysis, aviation manufacturing is becoming increasingly intelligent.

Accelerating Aerospace Innovation with Digital Twins, Simulation, and AI-Powered Engineering 

Digital engineering enables faster development cycles and cost savings. With digital twin technology, physical aircraft have virtual counterparts tracking design, testing, manufacturing, and servicing.

Multidisciplinary design platforms integrate diverse engineering skills, while simulations and data analytics create competitive advantages. Akkodis has built its own optimization algorithms and machine learning tools to reduce lead time and improve engineering outcomes.

Digital Maintenance and Predictive Analytics: The Future of Aviation MRO Services 

With increasing complexity, servicing aviation equipment is more demanding. Digitalization is the solution. Predictive maintenance, powered by sensor data and advanced analytics, replaces traditional scheduled checks.

Akkodis provides global Field Service Support to airlines, including legacy fleet assistance and new aircraft entry-into-service. AR/VR environments have been developed for 3D engine maintenance training.

Future maintenance will feature even tighter integration between OEMs and airlines, leveraging data continuity and digital twins to improve performance, reduce downtime, and optimize planning.