Aviation’s $50bn tech surge stalled by data gaps across systems

SITA’s latest Air Transport IT Insights report highlights that aviation’s record technology investment is being constrained by one persistent issue: poor data coordination.

The industry spent a record US$50.8 billion on IT in 2025. However, CEO David Lavorel explained that “where data does not flow freely across systems and partners, investment cannot fully deliver what it was designed to unlock”. He added that while this constraint “carries a higher cost today”, it also presents “a clear opportunity to emerge stronger”.

Airlines and airports increased IT spending to $36 billion and $14.8 billion respectively, with most prioritising data-driven decision-making. However, fragmented systems remain a barrier, particularly as delays cost the industry an estimated $30 billion annually.

Artificial intelligence (AI) adoption is accelerating, with 63% of airlines using it in operations control, but its full potential is limited by inconsistent data. “The technology is there… The data infrastructure to connect it often is not,” Lavorel said.

Similar challenges are seen in cybersecurity, digital identity, and sustainability initiatives, where progress depends on shared, reliable data.

The report concludes that improving data coordination is now critical to unlocking value from industry-wide digital investment.

SITA announced a partnership with Palo Alto Networks last year, to deliver comprehensive cybersecurity protection for mission-critical airport applications.