Transforming Southeast Asia’s Skies: AI and Prompt Engineering Take Flight

Firstly, let’s define Artificial Intelligence (AI) and then delve deeper into the potential of AI in galvanising Air Traffic Management. According to Manning (2020), Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a term coined by emeritus Stanford University Professor John McCarthy in 1955 as “the science and engineering of making intelligent machines”. In the present day, the focus of AI is on machines that can learn, at least somewhat like human beings do.  Imagine an orchestra conductor, not as a human, but as an AI algorithm. This virtual conductor analyses vast amounts of data from radar, weather, flight plans, and more, orchestrating a symphony of aircraft to chart the optimal flight path. AI considers a multitude of factors for optimisation such as distance, weather, and congestion, fuel consumption and flight times. Additionally, AI is able to predict congestion through the analysis of real-time data, anticipating bottlenecks and suggesting alternative routes to prevent delays (Kabaskhkin et al., 2023). The AI algorithm will also assist air traffic controllers by acting as a trusted advisor, as it provides real-time insights and recommendations, enabling faster and most importantly, safer decisions. Still, AI’s power doesn’t stop there, as it is able to synergise with technologies like Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) and data link communications which helps to provide real-time aircraft tracking. Imagining ADS-B , which provides constant aircraft position updates, feeding AI with even more data for precise demand predictions and optimised routes. Therefore, data-linked communication can facilitate instant information exchange between aircraft and air traffic control, further enhancing safety and efficiency.

Secondly, let’s explore a discipline dedicated to the careful crafting of the queries and instructions entered into AI systems, Prompt Engineering. With real-time data and automation tools working hand-in-hand, prompt engineering will be able to manage air traffic efficiently. By automating flight planning, routing, and scheduling, prompt engineering allows quick responses to changes in traffic demand and optimises airspace capacity. This then translates to more flights, which allows airports the ability to accommodate more flights without congestion, which is especially critical for rapidly developing destinations. Delays would also be significantly reduced, as optimised routes and fewer diversions mean less waiting time for passengers. These would inevitably create an enhanced experience, better connectivity and smoother journeys for everyone.