While millions of Canadians and global travelers make their way home for the holidays, a quiet technological revolution is underway at airports. According to Simon Lomas, Chief Information Officer of Technology & Engineering at SITA, the air transport industry's leading IT provider, artificial intelligence (AI) is being increasingly deployed to streamline everything from baggage handling to passenger flow.
The Purpose-Driven AI Revolution
Lomas, in a statement released on December 19, 2025, emphasizes that AI's impact in aviation is more about practical application than flashy disruption. He draws a parallel to past technological shifts like mobile and the web, suggesting the real value comes from focused use.
"The real opportunity lies not in adopting technology for its own sake, but in applying it with purpose," Lomas states. He points out that in an industry with tight margins and strict regulations, success depends on targeting clear business outcomes. The goal is tangible value, not just hype.
Tangible Results: Baggage Handling and Beyond
One of the most compelling examples of AI's practical benefits is in baggage management. A collaboration integrating Apple's technology (like AirTags) with SITA's WorldTracer® platform has yielded dramatic results.
Airlines using this system have seen a 90% reduction in truly lost bags. Furthermore, the recovery time for delayed bags has been cut by 26% for carriers utilizing the Find My Share Item Location feature.
These improvements address a massive financial pain point. The aviation industry faces an estimated annual cost of US $5 billion due to mishandled baggage, covering returns, compensation, and logistics. AI-driven solutions are proving to be a critical tool in reducing these costs and passenger frustration.
Meeting the Demand of a Growing Industry
The push for efficiency comes at a crucial time. The Airports Council International predicts global passenger numbers will surpass 10 billion for the first time in 2025, growing to 12 billion before 2030.
Lomas notes that AI's potential extends beyond baggage. It promises to transform biometric boarding, flight turnaround times, fleet management, and overall airport operations, leading to smoother journeys and more sustainable practices.
As travelers relax after their holiday journeys, the systems that guided them are becoming smarter. The focus, as Lomas concludes, is on solving real problems with measurable results, ensuring AI earns its place as a foundational technology for the future of flight.
