Innovating Aviation Resilience: The Role of Emerging Technologies in the Middle Eastern Air Transport Industry

ABSTRACT In an increasingly complex and dynamic global environment, airlines must leverage advanced technologies to enhance their operational resilience and sustain competitiveness. This study investigates the role of emerging technologies—specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data Analytics, Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR and AR)—in strengthening organisational resilience among Middle Eastern airlines. Utilising an online survey distributed to 152 air transport industry stakeholders, the research analyses the impact of these technologies on operational efficiency, decision‐making and crisis management. Stratified sampling divided respondents into management, flight crew and ground staff, ensuring a representative sample. The findings highlight IoT and Big Data Analytics as critical to improving resource allocation and promoting proactive decision‐making. T‐tests and ANOVA results revealed no significant differences in technology adoption across gender or occupational roles. However, multiple regression analysis demonstrated that Big Data Analytics and IoT significantly enhance organisational resilience, while AI shows a weaker relationship due to its implementation challenges. The study concludes that adopting emerging technologies is vital for airlines to adapt to market disruptions, optimise operations and maintain long‐term sustainability. The results support Organisational Resilience Theory, emphasising contingency planning and proactive innovation to mitigate industry uncertainties.