IATA, Airbus, Embraer and Rolls-Royce agree data use principles
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has partnered with Airbus, Embraer, and Rolls-Royce to introduce a set of five key principles governing access to and use of Aircraft Operational Data (AOD).
These guidelines are designed to enhance transparency and control over how airlines manage the data generated by their aircraft.
The newly established principles are as follows:
- Consent: Airlines must provide written consent before any AOD is extracted from their aircraft.
- Transparency: Airlines are entitled to full visibility regarding the data produced by their aircraft and how it is being utilised.
- Sharing: Airlines have the authority to decide with whom they share their AOD and can manage this process as they see fit.
- Accessibility: Airlines must be able to access, analyse, and make use of their aircraft’s operational data without interference from external parties.
- Responsible Use: Airlines may share AOD with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to enhance safety and, at their discretion, improve aircraft reliability.
These principles cover AOD generated from aircraft during both flight and ground operations, and they are subject to the relevant regulations and contractual agreements between airlines and manufacturers.
The agreement comes after discussions between IATA, representing the airline community, and key manufacturers in the aviation sector.
AOD plays a vital role in advancing safety measures, maintenance procedures, and overall operational efficiency. By clarifying the rules around data access and use, the new guidelines are set to pave the way for future innovations in the industry.
“These principles bring transparency to how AOD is used,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
“Establishing that airlines are in control of the data generated by the aircraft they operate sets an important best practice in an area where a common understanding was needed.
“With this agreement, airlines, manufacturers and other interested parties will be able to more efficiently utilise AOD to operate and manage aircraft safely, efficiently and more sustainably.
“We look forward to other OEMs joining the early adopters in endorsing these commitments.”
