HRA Finalizes First ICBC Deal with Acquisition of 737 MAX 8 Aircraft

Merlin Included in Fast Company’s 2026 List of Most Innovative Companies **Boston, March 24, 2026** – Merlin, Inc. (NASDAQ: MRLN) has been named to Fast Company’s esteemed 2026 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies, joining prominent industry leaders such as Google, Nvidia, Adidas, and Walmart. This annual list highlights organizations that are transforming industries and culture through pioneering innovation, with 720 honorees selected across 59 sectors and regions worldwide. Innovation in Autonomous Flight Technology Merlin’s recognition stems from its flagship product, the Merlin Pilot—an AI-powered autonomous flight system capable of operating any aircraft, military or civilian, from takeoff to landing, with or without human intervention. Developed from first principles, the Merlin Pilot is designed for scalability and adaptability, supporting a diverse range of aircraft including cargo turboprops, tankers, commercial freighters, and military transports such as the C-130J. Each autonomous flight generates valuable data that continuously enhances the system’s intelligence and resilience, creating a technology that is increasingly difficult to replicate. The company has accumulated hundreds of hours of autonomous flight across multiple aircraft types, demonstrating the system’s operational maturity. Merlin’s recent $200 million public offering will support ongoing development of its AI autopilot technology. The company has also secured significant contracts, including a $16 million agreement with the U.S. Air Force, and projects revenues of $32 million for 2026. With plans to invest $30.3 million in research and development this year, Merlin signals a strong commitment to advancing autonomous aviation. “Being recognized by Fast Company just days after our NASDAQ listing underscores the momentum behind what we’re building: an AI-powered operating system for autonomous flight,” said Matt George, CEO and founder of Merlin. “Aviation’s first 100 years were built around pilots. We’re laying the foundation for the next 100—built on autonomy—with the operating system of record for the sky, designed to power the next generation of both military and civil aviation.” Fast Company’s Recognition and Industry Impact Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies list is one of the publication’s most anticipated annual features. Honorees are selected through a rigorous evaluation process, with editors and writers reviewing thousands of submissions to identify organizations that drive progress and deliver measurable impact. Brendan Vaughan, editor-in-chief of Fast Company, remarked, “Our list of the Most Innovative Companies is about spotlighting organizations that don’t just adapt to change—they drive it. The companies we honor this year are redefining what leadership looks like in 2026, pairing bold ideas with measurable impact and turning breakthrough innovation into real-world value.” Merlin’s advancements are expected to influence the broader aviation sector, encouraging competitors to increase investment in AI technologies and pursue strategic partnerships to maintain their market positions. Industry analysts anticipate a surge in interest and investment in AI-driven aviation solutions as a result. The full list of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies will be available at fastcompany.com and will appear on newsstands beginning March 31, 2026. Honorees will be celebrated at the Most Innovative Companies Summit and Gala on May 19 in New York City.

Radio Call Reveals Engine Trouble Before Fatal Boynton Beach Helicopter Crash A helicopter that crashed into a warehouse in Boynton Beach on Monday, resulting in the deaths of both occupants, was experiencing engine trouble shortly before the accident, according to recently released air traffic control radio transmissions. The 43-second recording, obtained by NBC6, captures a voice from the helicopter alerting controllers: “We’re gonna be landing out here in one of these fields, we’ve got something going on with the helicopter.” When the message was not immediately understood, a second voice clarified, “He said he’s gonna be landing in one of the fields, there’s a problem with his engine.” The crash occurred around 12:30 p.m. near the 3800 block of South Congress Avenue, when the Robinson R44 helicopter collided with a vacant warehouse. Aerial footage showed the wreckage protruding from the roof of the building. Both individuals aboard the aircraft were killed, though their identities have not yet been released by authorities. Investigation and Industry Implications Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records indicate that the helicopter was registered to Palm Beach Helicopters, a flight school based in Lantana. The school’s owner confirmed that the flight was a training mission. While flight tracking data from FlightAware suggests the helicopter departed from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, officials have not officially confirmed the point of origin. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) was scheduled to arrive at the crash site on Tuesday to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the accident, with particular focus on the reported engine malfunction. This incident occurs amid increased scrutiny of helicopter safety, following a similar crash in Arizona where engine trouble was also suspected. Investigators face significant challenges in determining the exact mechanical failure and assessing whether existing safety protocols were adequate. The crash is expected to prompt a thorough review of maintenance and training procedures, not only at Palm Beach Helicopters but across the broader aviation industry. Public concern regarding helicopter safety may intensify, leading to heightened examination of service providers and their safety records. Market responses could include increased regulatory scrutiny of helicopter operators and potential insurance claims related to the crash. Competitors in the flight training and charter sectors may respond by emphasizing enhanced safety measures and launching public relations campaigns to reassure clients and maintain confidence. As the investigation progresses, officials and industry stakeholders will be under pressure to address the mechanical and procedural factors that contributed to the tragedy and to implement measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.

Jazeera Airways Opens Key Supply Chain Corridor to Kuwait Jazeera Airways, Kuwait’s foremost low-cost carrier, has inaugurated a vital supply chain corridor into Kuwait through Qaisumah Airport (AQI) in Saudi Arabia. This development represents a significant advancement in maintaining the country’s access to essential goods amid ongoing regional challenges. The airline recently completed its inaugural multimodal shipment, transporting 4.5 tonnes of fresh fruits and vegetables from Chennai, India, to Kuwait. The cargo was flown into Qaisumah and subsequently transported overland to Kuwait, ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of perishable goods despite prevailing airspace and operational restrictions. Addressing Regional Logistics Challenges This initiative emerges at a time when traditional logistics channels across the Middle East are under considerable strain due to geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts. These disruptions have affected travel flows and connectivity throughout the Gulf, exposing the fragility of the region’s global supply networks. The establishment of this new corridor is particularly critical for essential commodities with limited shelf life, such as fresh produce. By creating an alternative route, Jazeera Airways not only meets immediate supply demands but also enhances Kuwait’s resilience against future disruptions. Barathan Pasupathi, CEO of Jazeera Airways, emphasized the broader significance of the operation, stating, “In the current environment, connectivity is not only about moving people, it is also about ensuring the continued flow of essential goods into Kuwait. Establishing this supply chain corridor via Qaisumah allows us to support the national food reserves at this critical time. This is a responsibility we have embraced as Kuwait’s national carrier, and one we will continue to build on.” Operational Coordination and Strategic Implications The successful execution of this supply chain corridor required meticulous coordination among multiple stakeholders across Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and India. Aviation authorities, customs officials, ground handling teams, and logistics partners collaborated closely to manage the shipment from its origin in Chennai to its final delivery in Kuwait. The operation was conducted under stringent timelines to preserve the freshness and quality of the perishable cargo. Jazeera Airways’ decision to utilize Qaisumah Airport follows the closure of Kuwait’s airspace, demonstrating the airline’s operational agility and dedication to national priorities. This strategic adaptation also positions Jazeera Airways to compete more effectively with other regional carriers, which may be compelled to adjust their operations amid increasing pressures on Gulf aviation hubs. By integrating air and overland transport, Jazeera Airways has expanded its capabilities beyond passenger services to include cargo operations, thereby reinforcing Kuwait’s food security and supply chain continuity. The airline’s efforts highlight the growing necessity for flexible and responsive logistics networks in a region marked by instability. As the Gulf navigates complex geopolitical risks and intensifying competition among carriers, Jazeera Airways’ new supply chain corridor lays the groundwork for more robust and adaptable logistics solutions, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining Kuwait’s supply lines and supporting its communities.

Expansion in Muskegon Enhances Production of CFM LEAP Components for GE Aerospace GE Aerospace has announced a significant investment of $1 billion in U.S. manufacturing by 2026, underscoring its commitment to expanding domestic production capabilities and supporting the American aviation industry. At the heart of this initiative is the expansion of its Muskegon, Michigan facility, which will increase the output of critical components for the CFM LEAP engine—a cornerstone product serving both commercial and military aviation sectors. Strategic Investment to Meet Growing Demand This substantial investment forms part of GE Aerospace’s broader strategy to bolster its U.S. customer base and contribute to the revitalization of the nation’s manufacturing sector. The expansion in Muskegon is designed to address the rising demand within the aviation industry, driven by a resurgence in air travel and the ongoing modernization of airline fleets worldwide. By scaling up production, GE Aerospace aims to position itself to better serve its clients and capitalize on the sector’s recovery. Operational Challenges and Market Implications While the expansion presents significant growth opportunities, it also introduces operational challenges. Increasing production capacity will necessitate stringent quality control measures and the seamless integration of new technologies into existing manufacturing processes. Additionally, the company must remain vigilant against potential supply chain disruptions, which have posed difficulties across various industries in recent years. Investor response to the announcement has been predominantly positive, reflecting confidence in GE Aerospace’s domestic growth strategy. However, some analysts have expressed caution, highlighting the risks associated with rapid scale-up, particularly if supply chain constraints persist or if quality standards are compromised. The competitive dynamics within the aerospace engine market are also expected to evolve as a result of this expansion. Competitors may accelerate their own production and investment efforts to maintain or enhance their market positions amid intensifying competition. Industry Engagement and Future Outlook Earlier this year, GE Aerospace sought to deepen industry engagement by inviting last-minute applications to its 2026 L.I.F.T Summit, an event aimed at attracting students and professionals. This initiative reflects the company’s commitment to fostering talent and collaboration ahead of its planned production increase. As GE Aerospace advances its domestic manufacturing focus through the Muskegon expansion, the company faces both the opportunity to grow and the challenge of managing the complexities inherent in large-scale industrial development within a rapidly changing market environment.

FAA Expands Approval of Swift Fuels 100R to 840 Aircraft Engines The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has significantly broadened its approval of Swift Fuels’ 100R unleaded aviation gasoline, now authorizing its use in 840 different aircraft engines. The update, effective March 11, 2026, amends the FAA’s Approved Model List (AML) for Swift Fuels’ Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), encompassing a wide range of engines from 65-horsepower Continentals to high-performance Lycoming 540s, as well as models from Franklin, Pratt & Whitney, and several radial engines. This development marks a crucial advancement in the aviation industry’s transition away from leaded fuels. Since introducing its UL94 unleaded avgas in 2015, Swift Fuels has supplied this 94-octane fuel to over 100 airports across the United States. While UL94 has served lower-compression engines—covering approximately 65 to 70 percent of the piston engine fleet—high-performance engines have continued to depend on leaded 100LL fuel for detonation protection. The expanded approval of 100R aims to address this gap by providing a high-octane unleaded alternative suitable for a broader range of engines. Progress Toward Unleaded Aviation Fuel The path to wider adoption of 100R began in late 2024 when the FAA granted a limited STC for its use in Cessna 172 R and S models equipped with Lycoming IO-360-L2A engines. Over the following 18 months, 100R was employed as a “test-bed” fuel by ten flight schools across the United States and Europe. A significant milestone occurred in September 2025 when ASTM International published a production specification for 100R, facilitating broader acceptance and distribution of the fuel. Swift Fuels has underscored the importance of ASTM certification, emphasizing that a global specification is vital for international distribution and securing approvals from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Leveraging its existing UL94 infrastructure, the company plans to expand the rollout of 100R, gradually replacing the lower-octane fuel as additional engine approvals are secured. Implications for Operators and the Market Aircraft owners wishing to use 100R must obtain an STC. Swift Fuels offers a “Forever STC” for $100, which includes ongoing notifications, placards, licensing rights, and all necessary FAA documentation at no extra cost. This streamlined approach is intended to facilitate a smoother transition for operators as 100R becomes available at more airports. The FAA’s expanded approval is expected to have a significant impact on the general aviation fuel market. As eligibility for 100R use grows, demand is likely to increase, potentially accelerating its distribution throughout the United States and Europe. However, this transition also presents challenges, including market acceptance and the need for airports and operators to adapt to new fuel specifications and infrastructure requirements. Competitive Landscape in Unleaded Avgas Competition in the unleaded aviation gasoline market remains intense. Swift Fuels is among three companies striving to deliver a viable unleaded 100-octane fuel for general aviation by 2030. General Aviation Modifications Inc. (GAMI) secured FAA approval for its G100UL fuel in 2022, which covers every spark-ignition piston engine and airframe listed in the FAA’s Type Certificate database. Meanwhile, LyondellBasell continues to develop its UL100E fuel. As the industry navigates these changes, the expanded FAA approval of Swift Fuels’ 100R represents a pivotal moment in efforts to eliminate lead from aviation fuel and modernize the energy landscape of general aviation.

Asia-Pacific Aviation Growth Boosts Airport Catering Truck Market The global airport catering truck market is witnessing significant expansion, driven primarily by the resurgence of air travel and the rapid growth of the aviation sector in the Asia-Pacific region. Valued at approximately USD 950 million in 2025, the market is expected to exceed USD 1.6 billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5.5%, according to industry analysts. Drivers of Market Growth: Air Traffic Recovery and Service Enhancement The swift recovery of global air passenger traffic, especially within the Asia-Pacific region, is a key catalyst for the rising demand in the airport catering truck market. Airlines are increasingly focusing on enhancing onboard services to distinguish themselves through premium in-flight dining experiences, which necessitates advanced catering logistics. This demand is further supported by the steady increase in global air passenger numbers and flight frequencies, the expansion of airline fleets encompassing both low-cost and full-service carriers, and substantial investments in airport modernization and ground handling infrastructure. Additionally, stringent hygiene and safety standards in food handling have become critical, compelling airlines to rely on efficient ground support equipment such as catering trucks to maintain operational excellence. Technological Innovations and Sustainability Initiatives The market is undergoing notable technological advancements aimed at improving sustainability and operational efficiency. There is a growing adoption of electric and hybrid catering trucks designed to reduce emissions, alongside the integration of hydraulic lifting systems equipped with enhanced safety features. Manufacturers are also focusing on developing lightweight, modular truck designs and implementing Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled fleet management systems to optimize operations. Noise reduction and energy efficiency remain important considerations in these innovations. While electric catering trucks have gained considerable traction in Europe and North America—regions prioritizing carbon neutrality—the Asia-Pacific market is rapidly advancing as airports modernize their fleets to align with global sustainability trends. Market Segmentation and Regional Dynamics High-lift catering trucks currently dominate the market due to their capability to service large, wide-body aircraft commonly used on long-haul routes. Although diesel-powered trucks continue to hold a significant share, electric variants are swiftly gaining ground as environmental concerns become increasingly prominent. The Asia-Pacific region emerges as the fastest-growing market, propelled by expanding aviation infrastructure and surging passenger traffic in countries such as China and India. China leads with extensive airport expansion projects, while India’s burgeoning domestic and international air travel further accelerates growth. The region’s momentum is exemplified by AirAsia X’s projected 11% revenue increase in 2026 and the consolidation of AirAsia’s air operator certificates, developments that are expected to intensify competition and stimulate more competitive pricing and service offerings within the catering truck sector. Regulatory and Safety Considerations Despite promising growth prospects, the market faces challenges related to regulatory compliance and safety. Recent incidents, including a collision between a regional jet and an airport rescue and firefighting (ARFF) truck at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, have heightened industry awareness regarding safety protocols and operational standards. These events are likely to prompt airports and airlines to invest more heavily in advanced and safer catering truck solutions to mitigate risks and enhance ground operations. Competitive Landscape and Industry Outlook The airport catering truck market is moderately consolidated, with key players such as Mallaghan Engineering Ltd., JBT Corporation, Global Ground Support LLC, and ALVEST Group leading the charge. These companies are prioritizing technological innovation, sustainability, and global expansion. Their strategic focus includes the development of electric and automated vehicles as well as comprehensive fleet modernization efforts to meet evolving industry requirements. As the Asia-Pacific aviation sector continues its robust expansion, the demand for efficient, safe, and sustainable airport catering trucks is poised to grow, shaping the future of ground support logistics on a global scale.

Saab Secures Cohere AI Contract for GlobalEye in Canada Saab has formalized a memorandum of understanding with Canadian artificial intelligence firm Cohere to explore advanced AI applications for its GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft. Announced on March 23, 2026, this agreement represents a significant technological advancement in Saab’s ongoing campaign to secure Canadian defense contracts. While directly linked to Saab’s GlobalEye proposal for Canada, the partnership is also designed to benefit current and future international operators of the platform. Advancing AI Integration for Aerospace Missions The collaboration will concentrate on developing data-driven mission support systems, sophisticated maintenance tools, and enhanced information processing capabilities. A key focus is on secure, on-premises integration tailored to the complex requirements of aerospace environments. Saab has indicated that initial pilot projects have already been identified, signaling a swift transition from concept to practical application. Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, emphasized the strategic value of the partnership, stating, “Canada offers outstanding industrial and advanced technology partners. Working with Canadian companies like Cohere on emerging technologies strengthens our global supply chain and enhances Saab’s international competitiveness.” Strengthening Saab’s Canadian Presence and Future Prospects This agreement aligns with Saab’s intensified efforts to deepen its industrial footprint in Canada, where it is promoting local production of Gripen fighters and GlobalEye aircraft. Saab projects that these initiatives could support over 12,000 Canadian jobs. The company is leveraging Bombardier’s Global business jet family—the platform underpinning GlobalEye—to expand Canadian industrial participation. Furthermore, Saab has suggested that Canada could play a pivotal role in future combat aviation developments, potentially contributing to Sweden’s Koncept för Framtida Stridsflyg (KFS), a national program launched in 2023 aimed at developing next-generation air combat capabilities encompassing both crewed and uncrewed systems. The Cohere agreement thus reinforces Saab’s vision of a long-term Canadian partnership extending into future air combat innovation. Navigating Challenges in Military AI Integration The integration of artificial intelligence into military platforms is attracting heightened scrutiny from defense stakeholders. A senior Pentagon official recently underscored potential operational restrictions on AI contracts that could affect military missions, raising critical questions about governance and the responsible deployment of AI in sensitive defense contexts. As Saab advances its collaboration with Cohere, it faces a competitive environment where rivals are likely to emphasize compliance with operational guidelines and address concerns regarding the ethical use of AI in military applications. Saab’s Broader AI Initiatives The Cohere partnership forms part of Saab’s wider strategic push into artificial intelligence. In June 2025, Saab completed flight tests of the Gripen E fighter with Helsing’s AI agent autonomously controlling the aircraft during beyond-visual-range combat scenarios over the Baltic Sea, focusing on real-time decision-making capabilities. Saab’s AI efforts extend beyond its own platforms; in Germany, its Arexis electronic warfare suite for the future Eurofighter EK variant is being integrated with Helsing’s Cirra AI software to improve detection and response to hostile emitters. As the defense sector increasingly embraces AI technologies, Saab’s collaboration with Cohere positions the company at the forefront of innovation, while simultaneously navigating the complex regulatory and operational challenges associated with military AI applications.

Aerotec Expands European MRO Network with Latest Acquisition Aerotec Europe GmbH (Aerotec) has announced the acquisition of Global Aerotech d.o.o, a Croatia-based provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Specialising in base maintenance, line maintenance, and component repair, Global Aerotech’s integration into Aerotec’s portfolio marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing expansion across the European aviation aftermarket. Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed. Strategic Growth and Market Positioning Since its acquisition by Borromin Capital Fund IV in September 2022, Aerotec, alongside its subsidiary Airplane Equipment & Services A.E.S. GmbH, has pursued a focused growth strategy. This approach combines organic development with the acquisition of complementary businesses to enhance its presence in the aviation aftermarket. The purchase of Global Aerotech follows a series of strategic transactions designed to build a comprehensive MRO and aftermarket platform. In June 2024, Aerotec acquired aviationscouts, a prominent firm specialising in aircraft interior aftermarket solutions, particularly refurbished seating. This was succeeded in July 2025 by the acquisition of Opremic trade GmbH, an IT company that bolstered Aerotec’s digital capabilities, especially in MRO documentation and process optimisation. Most recently, in November 2025, Aerotec expanded its international reach by acquiring a Dubai-based component maintenance facility focused on the design, production, refurbishment, and certification of aircraft cabin interiors. With the addition of Global Aerotech, Aerotec not only enhances its technical expertise but also extends its geographic footprint within Europe. This acquisition reinforces the company’s ambition to develop an integrated, digitally enabled MRO platform capable of delivering a wider range of services to airline and aviation customers, supporting sustained growth across key segments of the aerospace aftermarket.

Safran Expands Maintenance Operations in Sarasota New Facility Enhances Aerospace Electrical System Services Safran Electrical & Power has inaugurated a new facility in Sarasota, Florida, dedicated to the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) of aerospace electrical systems. This expansion significantly strengthens Safran’s operational presence in the region, positioning Sarasota as a pivotal hub for power generation, distribution, and conversion management solutions. The upgraded site now spans 140,000 square feet, supporting a comprehensive range of electrical equipment and services across the aerospace, defence, and industrial sectors. The facility’s capabilities encompass the design, manufacture, and support of power generation systems, distribution and conversion components, protection equipment, and aircraft emergency systems. A key aspect of this development is the integration of electrical activities previously conducted by Thales in Orlando, which Safran Electrical & Power acquired in October 2023 as part of its strategic growth initiatives. This consolidation enhances the site’s ability to deliver specialised MRO services for electrical generators, power electronics, and lithium battery systems, bolstered by improved engineering resources and infrastructure. Integrated Operations and Strategic Importance The Sarasota facility now offers dedicated servicing for rotating machines, with operations already underway. This expansion enables Safran Electrical & Power to oversee the entire lifecycle of its electrical systems from a single location, encompassing research and technology, development, qualification, manufacturing, and long-term maintenance support. Such an integrated approach aims to enhance operational efficiency, responsiveness, and service quality for its customers. Operating since 1978 and part of Safran since 2015, the Sarasota site holds a significant role within the group’s extensive U.S. network. Safran supports approximately 11,000 jobs across 25 states through its assembly, production, engineering, maintenance, and corporate activities, making a substantial contribution to the American aerospace, space, and defence industries.

SDC2026: Exploring Advanced Air Mobility and AI Innovations The 2026 NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference (SDC2026) will feature a pivotal session titled “Advanced Air Mobility, AI and Emerging Tech: What’s Next,” scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on March 25. This discussion will examine the accelerating integration of electric aircraft, artificial intelligence (AI), and eVTOL infrastructure into business aviation, highlighting the technological advancements and regulatory developments that are reshaping the industry. Advancements in Air Mobility and Regulatory Progress Panelists Toni Drummond of Future Flight Global, Will Wheeler from Southern Company, Toby Woods of Direct2Aero, and Roger Zhan representing Floating Fleet, under the moderation of NBAA’s Heidi Williams, will provide an in-depth analysis of the current state of advanced air mobility (AAM). The conversation will cover a broad spectrum of topics, including drone operations, the eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), and the expanding role of automation within aviation. A significant portion of the discussion will focus on the recent Part 108 rulemaking, which seeks to standardize Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). This regulatory framework is expected to enhance operational flexibility, improve safety, and accelerate innovation by reducing reliance on waivers and exemptions. Williams emphasizes the importance of this development, stating, “Scaled UAS operations depend on a robust regulatory framework that moves beyond waivers and enables more expansive BVLOS operations. Lessons from UAS integration can directly inform the development of AAM and eVTOL operations.” The eIPP has expanded to include partnerships with state governments across 26 states and collaborations with prominent developers and manufacturers such as Archer, BETA, Electra, Joby, Reliable Robotics, and Wisk. These initiatives aim to safely integrate autonomous flight and other advanced technologies into the National Airspace System, thereby facilitating more efficient, sustainable, and accessible air transportation. Despite these promising developments, significant challenges remain. The integration of AAM vehicles—including electric air taxis and drones—into national airspace involves complex safety and coordination issues. Market skepticism persists regarding the timelines and practicality of widespread eVTOL adoption. Meanwhile, strategic partnerships, such as that between Greenpoint Technologies and Bell 429, are emerging to accelerate progress in this sector. Regulatory bodies like NASA and the FAA continue to play critical roles in establishing safety standards and guiding the industry’s evolution. The Growing Role of Artificial Intelligence in Aviation Operations Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly vital for schedulers and dispatchers in aviation. The panel will explore the distinctions between automation and AI, illustrating how AI technologies are already being applied in scheduling, dispatching, and operational planning. Williams notes, “Automation and AI will inevitably impact the roles of schedulers and dispatchers, but they can be leveraged to make decision-making easier, safer, and more efficient.” The expansion of UAS operations, facilitated by automation, is also expected to create new professional roles, such as remote pilot dispatchers. Panelists will share best practices concerning data sharing, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity, while addressing both the opportunities and potential challenges that these emerging technologies present for aviation professionals. For attendees and industry stakeholders, the session at SDC2026 promises to deliver critical insights into the technological innovations and regulatory shifts that will define the future of air mobility and AI in aviation.