The Mediating Role of Occupational Stress in the Impact of Digital Leadership on Open Innovation Capability in the Aviation Sector

In today's business world, where digitalization has become a strategic necessity, the impact of leadership styles on innovation capacity is becoming increasingly important. In particular, in the aviation industry, a sector characterized by low error tolerance and high information intensity, digital leaders must not only possess the ability to implement technology but also the competence to steer organizational innovation processes and manage employees' stress levels. In this context, the primary objective of this study is to empirically investigate how digital leadership influences open innovation capability and to examine the potential mediating role of occupational stress experienced by employees in this relationship. The study sample, which employs quantitative research methods, consists of 407 participants working in the aviation sector in Türkiye. The data obtained through the survey method were analyzed using structural equation modeling with the Smart-PLS 4.1.1 program. The findings indicate that digital leadership has a direct positive effect on open innovation capability and that occupational stress plays a partial mediating role in this relationship. These findings indicate that digital transformation processes should focus not only on technology but also on human resource strategies. The study presents a unique conceptual framework within the triangle of digital leadership, open innovation, and occupational stress, highlighting the impact of leadership on innovative and psychological outcomes in high-risk sectors such as aviation.