Introduction to air transportation

This technical annex to the WIPO Technology Trends Report on the Future of Transportation provides an in-depth analysis of air transportation, focusing on global patenting trends that reveal key technological advancements within the aviation industry. By examining extensive patent data, this annex uncovers insights into the innovations transforming air transport, including developments in aircraft design, propulsion systems, safety and control technologies, and sustainable aviation solutions. Full details on the research methodology and different patent indicators used can be found in the Appendix to the report.

It explores emerging technologies such as electric and hybrid propulsion, autonomous flight systems, lightweight materials and advanced aerodynamics, as well as digital transformations in areas like air traffic management, smart airports, and predictive maintenance. This analysis highlights the key players, geographic trends, and technology hotspots shaping the industry’s future, while also considering the impact of regulatory changes and environmental challenges on innovation. Designed as a comprehensive resource for industry stakeholders, policymakers, researchers and innovators, this annex offers valuable foresight into the future of aviation technology and its potential to meet the evolving demands for efficiency, safety and environmental sustainability in global air travel.

Overview of air transportation

Air transportation involves the movement of people, goods and animals through the atmosphere, primarily using airplanes and helicopters. ⁽¹⁾Tiwari, P., P. Yadav, S. Kumar, B. K. Mishra, G. N. Nguyen, S. P. Gochhayat et al. (2018). Sentiment analysis for airlines services based on Twitter dataset. Social Network Analytics: Computational Research Methods and Techniques, 149, 194-213. It encompasses various aircraft types, including commercial airliners, cargo planes and private jets, and relies on infrastructure such as airports, air traffic control systems and aviation security measures. ⁽²⁾Wensveen, J. (2023). Air Transportation: A Global Management Perspective. Routledge. This mode of transportation has evolved from early experimental flights to modern, technologically advanced systems, playing a crucial role in facilitating global travel, commerce and economic activities.

Air transportation is indispensable for the overall transportation system, because of its speed and ability to cover long distances quickly, making it a vital link in international trade and travel. ⁽³⁾Tiwari, P., P. Yadav, S. Kumar, B. K. Mishra, G. N. Nguyen, S. P. Gochhayat et al. (2018). Sentiment analysis for airlines services based on Twitter dataset. Social Network Analytics: Computational Research Methods and Techniques, 149, 194–213. Unlike land and sea transport, which are limited by geographical barriers, air transport can directly connect remote regions and major economic hubs, fostering global connectivity. This makes it essential for providing rapid transit, which is critical for both business and leisure travel, as well as for the timely delivery of high-value and perishable goods. ⁽⁴⁾Guimera, R., S. Mossa, A. Turtschi and L. N. Amaral (2005). The worldwide air transportation network: Anomalous centrality, community structure, and cities' global roles. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 102(22), 7794–7799. Thus, air transport often acts as a facilitator for other modes of transportation, ensuring the swift movement of goods and passengers across continents. ⁽⁵⁾Hettiarachchi, L. (2020). International Air Transport Association (IATA): Structure and Legitimacy of Its Quasi International Regulatory Power. The Hague: Eleven International Publishing, 1–258. For instance, goods transported by sea or land are often transferred to their final destination by air, especially when time is a critical factor. Similarly, passengers traveling internationally rely on air transportation for the main legs of their journeys.

Air transportation plays a crucial role in global trade and passenger mobility, influencing both economic development and international relations. ⁽⁶⁾World Bank (2024). Brief: Air Transport. World Bank Group. Available at: www.worldbank.org/en/topic/transport/brief/airtransport. Passenger travel activity is expected to grow significantly, with worldwide passenger kilometers nearly double between 2019 and 2050 under the Current Ambition scenario. ⁽⁷⁾ITF (2023). ITF Transport Outlook 2023: Summary. Paris: OECD Publishing. This highlights the an increasing demand for air travel, driven by economic growth, particularly in emerging markets. ⁽⁸⁾IATA (2023). Global Outlook for Air Transport: A Local Sweet Spot. International Air Transport Association. Available at: www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/economic-reports/global-outlook-for-air-transport---december-2023---report.

Air transport's share of CO₂ emissions is significant and expected to increase under current policies. In 2022, air transport accounted for 2% of global CO₂ emissions. ⁽⁹⁾IEA (2022). Tracking aviation. International Energy Agency. Available at: www.iea.org/energy-system/transport/aviation. By 2050, under the Current Ambition scenario, aviation emissions will constitute a larger share of total emissions, despite technological advancements and efficiency improvements. Even under the High Ambition scenario, where total emissions are reduced significantly, aviation emissions will still be a major concern. ⁽¹⁰⁾ITF (2023). ITF Transport Outlook 2023: Summary. Paris: OECD Publishing.

Efforts to decarbonize the air transport sector are critical for reducing emissions and achieving sustainable mobility. This includes adopting sustainable aviation fuels, improving aircraft efficiency and implementing policies that encourage the use of cleaner technologies. These measures will help create a more sustainable and efficient transportation system, capable of meeting future demand while minimizing environmental impacts, according to BCG ⁽¹¹⁾BCG (2021). Plotting aviation’s uncharted course to net zero. Boston Consulting Group. Available at: www.bcg.com/publications/2021/net-zero-aviation-is-the-future-of-aviation. and the IEA. ⁽¹²⁾IEA (2022). Tracking aviation. International Energy Agency. Available at: www.iea.org/energy-system/transport/aviation.

Sustainability and digitalization are two megatrends that have a vital role to play in transforming the future of air transportation. A focus on sustainability drives innovation toward reducing CO₂ emissions and promoting greener practices. Meanwhile, digitalization enhances operational efficiency through advancements in technology and data analytics, making aviation systems smarter and more adaptive to future challenges.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has highlighted the need for ambitious policies in order to achieve significant reductions in aviation emissions, projecting that CO₂ emissions from aviation could be cut by up to 50% by 2050 with the right measures in place. ⁽¹³⁾IATA (2021). Our commitment to fly net zero by 2050. International Air Transport Association. Available at: www.iata.org/en/programs/environment/flynetzero. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) also emphasizes the potential of accelerating the transition to sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and implementing efficiency technologies for both commercial and cargo aircraft to achieve significant emission reductions. ⁽¹⁴⁾European Commission (2024): EU and ICAO strengthen commitment to global aviation safety, security, and sustainability,. Available at: https://transport.ec.europa.eu/news-events/news/eu-and-icao-strengthen-commitment-global-aviation-safety-security-and-sustainability-2024-06-27_en. These commitments reflect a concerted effort by global organizations to address the climate impact of the aviation sector.

Digitalization is revolutionizing the air transport sector by driving significant advancements in efficiency safety, and customer experience. Digital transformation is of high strategic importance in maintaining a competitive edge. Digital tools and technologies are streamlining operations, reducing costs and improving service delivery. For instance, operational cost reductions of up to 20% have been reported, showcasing the tangible benefits of adopting digital solutions. ⁽¹⁵⁾Bain (2020). Digital operations: Don’t depart without a strategy. Bain & Company. Available at: www.bain.com/insights/digital-operations-dont-depart-without-a-strategy. Additionally, smart logistics solutions optimize supply chains, reducing waste and improving logistical efficiency.

Sustainable Propulsion technologies are transforming both passenger and freight air transportation:

• Efficient aircraft turbines: Advancements in turbine technology aim to improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and lower noise levels, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability.

• Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) is a cornerstone of a more Sustainable Propulsion, offering significant reductions in CO₂ emissions compared to traditional jet fuel. The International Energy Agency's (IEA) Aviation Outlook highlights that the adoption of SAFs is accelerating globally, driven by advancements in production technologies and increased availability. ⁽¹⁶⁾IEA (2023). Aviation. International Energy Agency. Available at: www.iea.org/energy-system/transport/aviation. SAFs are derived from renewable sources, such as plant oils, waste oils and other bio-based materials, and can be used in existing aircraft engines with minimal modifications.

• Battery-based electric and/or hybrid aircraft represent a promising solution for short-haul and regional flights, offering zero or lower tailpipe emissions and lower operating costs. ⁽¹⁷⁾WEF (2022). Target True Zero: Unlocking Sustainable Battery and Hydrogen-Powered Flight. World Economic Forum. Available at: www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Target_True_Zero_Aviation_ROUND_2022.pdf. These aircraft are powered by electric motors and advanced battery technologies, which are continually improving in terms of energy density and charging times.

• Hydrogen-powered aircraft are emerging as a potential solution for long-haul flights and heavy-duty applications. ⁽¹⁸⁾Yusaf, T., A. S. F. Mahamude, K. Kadirgama, D. Ramasamy, K. Farhana, H. A. Dhahad and A. R. A. Talib (2023). Sustainable hydrogen energy in aviation: A narrative review. International journal of hydrogen energy. Hydrogen can be used in fuel cells to generate electricity or burned in modified jet engines. This technology offers the potential for zero-emission flights, with water vapor being the only byproduct. The U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization emphasizes that hydrogen-powered aircraft are ideal for applications requiring a longer ranges and a higher payloads. ⁽¹⁹⁾Department of Energy (2023). The U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization: A Joint Strategy to Transform Transportation. Available at: www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2023-01/the-us-national-blueprint-for-transportation-decarbonization.pdf.

Automation and Circularity technologies are promoting efficient material use, smart production and enhanced recycling practices.

• Efficient material use is a key component of the circular economy, aiming to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency. This involves adopting lightweight materials, utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques to reduce material waste, and designing aircraft for disassembly and recycling. ⁽²⁰⁾Castillo Malagón, R., M. A. Cruz Reyes and R. S. Romero Saldaña (2024). Circular economy: A technological innovation strategy for sustainability in air transport. Mercados y negocios, 25(52), 31–52. These practices ensure that materials are used optimally throughout the product lifecycle, reducing environmental impact and conserving resources.

• Smart production and robotics are transforming manufacturing processes by enhancing efficiency, precision and flexibility. ⁽²¹⁾Aydın, S. and C. Kahraman (2021). Aviation 4.0 revolution. In Intelligent and Fuzzy Techniques in Aviation 4.0: Theory and Applications. Cham: Springer International Publishing, 3–19. Advances in Industry 4.0 technologies, such as internet of things (IoT), machine learning, and cyber-physical systems, are enabling autonomous production lines that able to adapt to real-time data and optimize operations. Thus, smart production systems can significantly reduce waste, improve product quality, and enable predictive maintenance, thereby extending the lifespan of machinery and equipment. Robotics plays a crucial role in automating repetitive tasks, improving accuracy and reducing human error, all of which contribute to more sustainable manufacturing processes.

• Recycling is a fundamental aspect of the circular economy, aiming to recover valuable materials from end-of-life products and reintroduce them into the production cycle. The Green.org emphasizes in an article the importance of intelligent automation in enhancing recycling processes, such as sorting and processing recyclables more efficiently. ⁽²²⁾Green.org (2024). How AI is revolutionizing recycling processes. Available at: https://green.org/2024/01/30/how-ai-is-revolutionizing-recycling-processes. Innovative technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are being used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of recycling operations, ensuring that more materials and components from an aircrafts such as engines, avionics and landing gear are recovered and reused.

Communication and Security technologies are paving the way for a new era of air transportation:

• Navigation technologies such as advanced Air Traffic Management (ATM) Systems are becoming increasingly essential for both passenger and freight transport. Such systems leverage real-time data, advanced routing algorithms, and AI to optimize flight paths, reduce delays and improve fuel efficiency. Consulting reports from McKinsey emphasize that the integration of AI into ATM systems is transforming route planning by predicting traffic patterns and suggesting alternative routes in real-time. ⁽²³⁾McKinsey (2023). The promise of travel in the age of AI. McKinsey & Company. Available at: https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/travel-logistics-and-infrastructure/our-insights/the-promise-of-travel-in-the-age-of-ai

• Device-to-device technology enhances communication between various systems and devices within the aviation ecosystem. ⁽²⁴⁾Areqi, M. A., A. T. Zahary and M. N. Ali (2023). State-of-the-art device-to-device communication solutions. IEEE Access, 11, 46734-46764. Such technology enables seamless data exchange between aircraft, ground control, maintenance systems, and passenger devices, improving operational efficiency and safety. By facilitating real-time information sharing, device-to-device communication helps in proactive maintenance, better passenger service and more efficient flight operations. According to industry experts, integrating device-to-device technology into the aviation sector can significantly reduce delays and improve the overall travel experience. ⁽²⁵⁾Rubio-Andrada, L., M. S. Celemín-Pedroche, M. D. Escat-Cortés and A. Jiménez-Crisóstomo (2023). Passengers’ satisfaction with the technologies used in smart airports: An empirical study from a gender perspective. Journal of Air Transport Management, 107, 102347.

• Adoption of cloud computing and low latency internet is revolutionizing how data is managed and utilized in air transportation. Cloud platforms enable the collection, storage and analysis of vast amounts of data from connected aircraft and infrastructure. According to Ericsson, low latency internet, particularly through 5G networks, facilitates real-time communication between aircraft and air traffic control systems. ⁽²⁶⁾Ericsson (2024). 5G private networks enable effective mission-critical communications now, while setting the stage for future optimizations across the airport. Available at: www.ericsson.com/en/blog/2024/6/smart-airports-connected-by-cellular-technology.

• Cybersecurity of paramount concern, as air transportation becomes more digitalized. Protecting aviation networks from cyber threats is essential to in ensuring safety and reliability for both passenger and freight transport. McKinsey's analysis points out that the rise in digital technologies has made aviation systems more vulnerable to cyberattacks, emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures. ⁽²⁷⁾McKinsey (2020). Cybersecurity in a Digital Era. McKinsey & Company. Available at: www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/business%20functions/risk/our%20insights/cybersecurity%20in%20a%20digital%20era/cybersecurity%20in%20a%20digital%20era.pdf. Such measures include encryption, secure communication protocols, and continuous monitoring to detect and mitigate potential threats.

Advanced Human-Machine Interface technologies are making interactions more intuitive, secure and responsive, thereby improving operational efficiency and user experience.

• Extended reality (XR) technologies, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), are significantly enhancing Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) by providing immersive and interactive experiences. ⁽²⁸⁾Klotz, A. and K. Stendal, (2023). How can Extended Reality (XR) enhance Aviation Personnel Training: A Literature Review. NIKT, 2. These technologies are particularly beneficial in aviation for training, maintenance, and navigation, offering real-time data overlays and interactive simulations to improve operational efficiency and decision-making.

• Speech recognition technology is transforming HMIs by enabling hands-free control and communication with aircraft systems. Such technology allows for more natural and efficient interactions by interpreting and responding to verbal commands. ⁽²⁹⁾Badrinath, S. and H. Balakrishnan, (2022). Automatic speech recognition for air traffic control communications. Transportation Research Record, 2676(1), 798–810. Within the aviation sector, advanced speech recognition systems enhance user experience and safety, enabling pilots and crew to control navigation, communication and other systems through voice commands.

• Facial recognition technology enhances security and personalization by identifying and verifying individuals based on their facial features. This technology is used in airports for passenger authentication, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access certain areas, and for monitoring passenger flows, thereby improving security and operational efficiency. ⁽³⁰⁾Zhu, T. and L. Wang (2020, March). Feasibility study of a new security verification process based on face recognition technology at airport. In Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 1510(1), 012025. IOP Publishing.

• Touch displays and data gloves represent significant advancements in tactile HMIs. Touch displays are widely used in aircraft cockpits and passenger systems, providing intuitive and direct interaction with digital interfaces. ⁽³¹⁾Wang, X., W. Guo, Z. Zhong, R. Zeng, J. Zhang and L. Wang (2024). The research of touch screen usability in civil aircraft cockpit. Plos one, 19(2), e0292849.

• HUD (Head-Up Displays) is revolutionizing the way pilots interact with critical flight information. ⁽³²⁾Morfitt, G. E. (2022). Augmenting heads-up displays with intelligent agents: A human factors approach. Master's thesis, Rowan University. Such displays project essential data, such as speed, altitude and navigation cues, directly onto the windshield, allowing pilots to keep their eyes fixed on the horizon while accessing necessary information. This technology enhances situational awareness and safety by reducing the need for pilots to look down at instrumentations, thus enabling quicker decision-making and response times. HUDs are increasingly being integrated into modern aircraft to improve operational efficiency and pilot performance. ⁽³³⁾Rebensky, S., M. Carroll, W. Bennett and X. Hu (2022). Impact of heads-up displays on small unmanned aircraft system operator situation awareness and performance: A simulated study. International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction, 38(5), 419–431.

To further understand the technological advancements driving such innovations, the next chapter will dive into the patent data for these technologies, highlighting key developments and trends in the field. This analysis will provide insights into those proprietary innovations shaping the future of air transportation.