Enhancing Aviation Meteorology: Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Decision-Making of Air Traffic Controllers and Pilot Operations

Abstract

As Artificial Intelligence evolves and becomes more dominant, it can be integrated into different industries, such as meteorology, aviation, maritime, etc. In the field of aviation, weather is one of the factors that causes aircraft accidents and incidents. This study seeks to identify the significant relationship and differences in the perception of pilots and air traffic controllers in the integration of artificial intelligence in weather-related decision-making. This study is a combination of quantitative and qualitative research. Analyzing the challenges, reliability, and predictability of artificial intelligence in integrating it into weather forecasting and decision-making of pilots and ATCs could play a significant role in aviation safety. To further understand the perception of Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers in the integration of AI into forecasting and decision-making, the researchers gathered 19 respondents, consisting of 13 pilots and six air traffic controllers. The informants are three professionals from different departments in the field of aviation. Each one of them has the knowledge to answer interview questions and provide valuable insights in terms of the challenges, reliability, and predictability of artificial intelligence. In terms of the challenges of AI, multiple forecasting methods can improve reliability, which is beneficial for aviation purposes. In terms of AI reliability, the industry's recognition of machine learning's critical role in improving flight planning accuracy, AI significantly enhances forecasting capabilities; it is most effective when combined with human judgment and established methods. The findings underscore the importance of combining traditional techniques with modern AI in decision-making to tackle aviation weather challenges.