IAG, Qatar Airways, Riyadh Air, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa & more ...
Digital Transformation | FTE Event News | Up in the Air // Mar 2025
Future Travel Experience is excited to unveil the FTE Airline Digital Transformation Power List EMEA 2025. Here we shine a light on those who are pioneering new approaches that have the potential to improve travel for passengers and make the industry safer, more efficient, and commercially successful. The EMEA edition champions the most transformative change enablers within the airline and airport industry in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa for their outstanding efforts to lead how their organization has embraced digital innovation. In 2025, FTE is more committed than ever to supporting digital transformation efforts in the industry through the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub, which is a truly unique community designed specifically for the individuals and organizations who are at the forefront of digital transformation and innovation in aviation.
Leaders in Digital Transformation
The following section highlights key players revolutionizing the end-to-end passenger experience and business performance:
International Airlines Group (IAG)
Jorge Saco, the Chief Information, Procurement, Services, and Innovation Officer at IAG, is leading the charge in digital innovation. IAG's focus on robotics, automation, and AI has resulted in impressive advancements. By leveraging AI, IAG aims to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and drive efficiencies across its member airlines.
One of the notable projects under IAG's innovation umbrella is IAG.ai, a platform that utilizes Machine Learning to provide real-time weather data to pilots and streamline customer service through virtual assistants. Saco's leadership in technology has positioned IAG as a frontrunner in the digital transformation journey.
TUI Airline
Under the guidance of Isabelle Droll, the Chief Information Officer, TUI Airline is undergoing a comprehensive digital transformation to improve operational efficiency and customer experiences. By incorporating generative AI and Machine Learning into its operations, TUI has been able to personalize customer engagements and streamline booking processes.
Droll's strategic approach to technology adoption has set TUI on a path to shift a significant portion of its bookings to its app, offering a more personalized and efficient booking experience for customers.
Qatar Airways
Suhail Kadri, the Chief Information Officer of Qatar Airways Group, is spearheading technological advancements within the airline industry. Qatar Airways' integration of AI and Virtual Reality in its services has redefined the pre-travel experience for passengers. Innovations like Sama 2.0 and QVerse have enhanced digital engagement and personalized interactions with customers.
Riyadh Air
Riyadh Air, the first digitally-native airline in Saudi Arabia, is setting new standards in personalized travel experiences. With a strong focus on AI and digital innovation, Riyadh Air aims to simplify the travel process for customers through intuitive and seamless digital offerings.
By partnering with tech companies and leveraging AI technologies, Riyadh Air is paving the way for a more engaging and efficient travel experience from booking to arrival.
Turkish Airlines
Leading the digital transformation initiatives at Turkish Airlines is Kerem Kızıltunç, the Chief Information Officer. With a robust strategy encompassing fintech, AI, biometrics, and digital passenger experiences, Turkish Airlines is striving to become a top global airline for digital innovations.
By prioritizing operational resilience and customer-centric digital solutions, Turkish Airlines is poised to deliver personalized experiences at every touchpoint, setting a new standard for the industry.
