As artificial intelligence continues to advance across the aviation industry, training organizations are under increasing pressure to understand and adopt these emerging technologies effectively. To address this need, WATS 2026 will feature a dedicated AI in Aviation Training Workshop scheduled for Monday, 4 May, aimed at providing practical, hands-on guidance for airline and training professionals.
The session is designed to go beyond high-level presentations, offering real-world case studies, operational guidance, and tools that participants can immediately incorporate into their training programs for pilots, cabin crew, and maintenance personnel. Facilitated by industry veterans Brock Booher and Cedric Paillard, both with extensive experience in aviation training innovation, digital transformation, and instructor-led technology, the workshop emphasizes operational relevance and safety in AI adoption.
Participants will gain insights into proven AI use cases, compliance considerations, ROI models for business cases, and foundational frameworks for successful implementation. The format includes live demonstrations, group exercises, polling, and interactive Q&A to enhance practical learning and engagement. Attendees can choose to add the workshop to their WATS registration for an additional fee or attend separately, with full details available online. This event presents a unique opportunity in 2026 for the industry to collaborate and develop grounded AI strategies, vital for modernizing aviation training systems and improving operational efficiency.
The workshop highlights AI's shift from a future technology to a strategic necessity, equipping leaders with the tools to evaluate opportunities, mitigate risks, and build credible, compliant programs. It underscores the importance of clarity, governance, and practical application in AI integration to ensure safety and effectiveness.
