Etihad Airways
Representational Image Etihad official website

Etihad Airways has become the first airline to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) solutions in enhancing safety management systems.

The UAE-based airline implemented this advanced technology in partnership with Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) to support and enhance Etihad's safety processes. This partnership helps establish joint training programs, research exploration and develop AI-powered solutions.

This AI-powered platform allows the airline to collect and analyze data including flight reports, maintenance and training activities. The solution consists of machine learning technologies including Google BERT, Microsoft Azure and TF-IDF.

Mohammad Al Bulooki, CEO of Etihad Airways, said the airline's top priority is "safety." He added that it is "constantly exploring innovative ways to enhance our safety performance; we believe the integration of artificial intelligence is a significant leap forward in this direction and is set to be a game-changer in aviation," as per WAM.

"By adopting AI to support and enhance industry-leading processes, Etihad demonstrates its commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology to ensure the ongoing safety and wellbeing of its guests and crew," the CEO said further.

Mohamed Hasan Al Mansoori, vice president of Emiratization strategy government relations at Etihad Airways, said, "We always explore innovative approaches and partner with leading educational institutions to empower the next generations with tangible experiences within the aviation industry."

"This AI-powered system is a testament to the success of our collaboration with MBZUAI and wider strategy to support Abu Dhabi's vision," Al Mansoori added.

With the help of AI implementation, the airline is advancing its day-to-day operations. Etihad Airways is the second-largest airline after Emirates in the United Arab Emirates.

MBZUAI is the first post-graduate university in the world that's completely focused on AI technology.

Meanwhile, the UAE is the first country in the world to appoint an AI minister and make huge investments in this advanced industry.

In July, Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, minister of state for artificial intelligence, digital economy and remote work applications, talked about the UAE's commitment to embrace AI in various sectors to bring digital transformation to the country.

The minister said the Middle Eastern country was working toward incorporating various AI solutions and tools into several sectors to prepare it for new opportunities and help design innovative models for a sustainable economy.