I was honoured to welcome nearly 30 students and their parents to an extraordinary Open Day at Beirut Airport. This event marked a significant milestone for aviation careers in Beirut and demonstrated the burgeoning interest in this field among Lebanon's youth.

Despite the political challenges in neighbouring regions, the enthusiasm for aviation careers remains high. Our Open Day was a sell-out success, filled within three days, underlining the strong demand and interest in this sector.

One of the most asked questions  by attendees concerned the role of AI in aviation: "Will AI be a threat to our dreams of becoming pilots?"

The answer is a resounding "No." AI is not here to replace pilots but to enhance the aviation industry. Its primary roles are to augment customer experience, analyze data for safety prevention, and boost technical or operational efficiencies.

As we look to the next decade, AI's influence will grow in areas like autonomous drones and experimental cargo flights. Yet, even with autonomous technology, the role of the pilot evolves rather than disappears, transitioning to ground-based operations where they oversee these advanced aircraft.

The journey toward AI integration in the cockpit is complex and lengthy. It involves technological advancements and shifts in public perception and regulatory standards.  

This process could span generations, ultimately leading to a new era where pilots, assisted by AI, continue to elevate aviation's already extraordinary safety standards.

The pilot's career is here to stay, and we at IAE are committed to helping this and the next generations achieve their aviation dreams.  

Stay tuned for more initiatives to bring aviation closer to you, including aviation workshops, summer camps, and community activities.

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