Mark Kelly Discusses EU AI Act and the Future of AI-Driven Work at Global Aviation Sustainability Day
On 12 November 2024, The Round Room at The Mansion House in Dublin hosted Aircraft Leasing Ireland’s (ALI) Global Aviation Sustainability Day—a high-profile forum dedicated to the latest innovations, sustainable practices, and evolving regulations shaping the aviation industry. The event brought together leaders, influencers, and key decision-makers from across the aviation ecosystem, spotlighting the theme: “Sustainability, is reality biting.”
One of the most compelling sessions featured AI Ireland Founder and AI Awards Creator, Mark Kelly. Speaking on a panel examining regulatory shifts and the role of new technologies, Mark shared insights on the impact of the EU AI Act and how artificial intelligence can help employees excel across various functions, including accounts, sales, marketing, and finance.
The EU AI Act: Redefining Innovation and Compliance
During the panel, Mark highlighted the EU AI Act’s potential to harmonise regulations, encourage ethical development, and foster innovation in AI-powered tools. He emphasised that these evolving regulations would not stifle creativity but instead spur the growth of safer, more transparent AI solutions. By outlining clear guidelines, the EU AI Act can help enterprises in aviation and beyond maintain competitive edges while ensuring robust compliance.
Elevating the Workforce with AI
Mark’s perspective underscored how AI is transforming traditional roles by optimising workflows, enhancing productivity, and reducing manual tasks. In accounts and finance, AI tools streamline data processing and financial forecasting, freeing employees to focus on strategic analysis rather than repetitive tasks. In sales and marketing, AI-driven analytics and customer insights enable personalised outreach, making it easier for teams to identify opportunities and drive revenue.
AI’s Role in Sustainable Aviation
The aviation industry stands at a critical juncture where sustainability is no longer a concept but an urgent reality. As manufacturers and airlines invest in Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and explore next-generation aircraft technologies, AI offers valuable support. Predictive maintenance, optimised flight routes, and improved supply chain management—all powered by AI—can significantly reduce environmental impact. By fine-tuning operations through advanced analytics, aviation stakeholders can lower emissions, save on fuel, and pave the way for a greener future.
Showcasing Real-World Impact
The ALI Global Aviation Sustainability Day underscored the collective effort underway to meet sustainability targets. Thought-provoking panels—like the one Mark participated in—helped illuminate the practical steps industries are taking. From ensuring regulatory compliance through the EU AI Act to boosting employee efficiency across various business functions, the day’s discussions provided a blueprint for sustainable growth.
Looking Ahead: A Sustainable, AI-Driven Future
As conversations continue to evolve within aviation and related industries, it’s clear that AI is not just an emerging technology—it’s a critical enabler of meaningful change. With the EU AI Act providing a framework for responsible innovation, and AI tools readily available to enhance workforce capabilities, the path forward is bright and promising.
The 2024 Global Aviation Sustainability Day offered a glimpse into a future where artificial intelligence, sustainability, and regulatory insight converge. Mark Kelly’s contributions highlighted the transformative power of AI in driving efficiency, meeting regulatory demands, and creating a more sustainable industry—ensuring that, for aviation, as well as other sectors, reality is indeed biting, and innovation is rising to the challenge.
