IATA World Data Symposium 2026 to Take Place in Singapore

Focus on Data, AI and Cybersecurity in Aviation

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will host the 2026 World Data Symposium (WDS) in Singapore on 8–9 April. The event will bring together professionals from aviation, technology and cybersecurity to discuss the role of data in industry transformation.

The symposium will focus on three key areas: using data to improve operational efficiency and decision-making, strengthening cybersecurity across the aviation ecosystem, and applying AI and automation to enhance operations and passenger experience.

Kim Macaulay, IATA’s Senior Vice President Information & Data and Chief Information & Data Officer, said the event will provide a platform for industry stakeholders to exchange insights and assess developments in digital innovation, including the role of AI and the need for stronger cyber resilience.

Sessions and Industry Participation

The programme will include discussions on digital transformation, AI applications, cloud security, and the use of digital twins in aviation and airport operations. Sessions will also explore how technologies from other industries can be adapted for aviation.

Singapore Airlines, the event’s official airline partner, will participate in the symposium, with contributions from CEO Goh Choon Phong and SVP Information Technology George Wang.

IATA representatives, including Director General Willie Walsh and Chief Economist Dr. Marie Owens Thomsen, will also be part of the discussions.

Additional speakers include senior executives from Malaysia Aviation Group, Thai Airways, Japan Airlines, Cargolux, DHL Global Forwarding, Changi Airport Group, Incheon International Airport, Globant, Netskope and Confluent.

The symposium is expected to serve as a forum for industry stakeholders to share use cases, discuss challenges, and explore approaches to data-driven transformation in aviation.