Artificial intelligence and its potential impact on regional aviation will be a major focus of the 2026 Regional Aviation Association of Australia convention in Cairns next month, with a keynote address and panel discussion dedicated to helping delegates understand the technology and what it means for their operations.
Radio and television personality, comedian and mathematician Adam Spencer will deliver the keynote address, drawing on his background in AI systems and mathematics to explore how the technology is already reshaping aviation globally and what regional operators can expect in the years ahead.
AI systems increasingly identify patterns, anomalies and predictions inside vast operational datasets, representing a shift from automation to adaptive intelligence.
AI can help detect faults before they occur, optimise fuel burn dynamically, assist maintenance crews using natural language copilots, and improve disruption recovery during weather or scheduling failures. Initially, the biggest gains are expected to be operational efficiency, maintenance reliability and as decision-making support tools rather than direct operational systems
"Regional aviation is potentially heavily impacted by AI because margins are tight, staffing is difficult and fleets are geographically dispersed," Spencer said.
"AI's biggest impact will not initially be pilotless aircraft, but smarter operations: predictive maintenance, fuel optimisation, scheduling, disruption management, training, and reducing administrative load on small operators. For regional carriers in particular, AI offers the possibility of delivering major-airline-grade operational intelligence without needing major-airline-scale staffing levels."
Spencer will then moderate a panel discussion featuring Qantas Chief Technology, AI and Transformation Officer Rachel Yangoyan, Basair CEO and RAAA Director David Trevelyan, and CASA Executive Advisor Dr Reece Clothier.
RAAA CEO Rob Walker said the AI focus could be a valuable eye-opener for delegates.
"Everyone is aware of AI, but not what it really means for regional aviation," Walker said. "The integration of new AI tools has enormous potential and benefits, but it could also introduce risk. As a sector we need to carefully understand both. A good safety culture includes consistency, predictability and reliability. But AI is about change and evolution. The two can be harmonious if used appropriately."
Spencer said delegates would leave with a practical understanding of where AI is genuinely useful now versus where hype exceeds reality.
"The presentation focuses on practical operational applications already being deployed globally, the likely medium-term impact on regional operators, workforce implications, safety and regulatory challenges, and the strategic risks of both under-reacting and over-reacting to AI," he said.
The 2026 RAAA Convention will be held at the Cairns Convention Centre from 16 to 18 June. Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King and Shadow Minister Bridget McKenzie are among the keynote speakers. For more information visit raaaconvention.com.au.