FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2025

IFALDA Urges Global Standards for Human-Centric AI in Aviation at ICAO Assembly

MONTREAL – The International Federation of Air Line Dispatchers’ Associations (IFALDA) is championing the critical role of Flight Dispatchers at the 42nd ICAO Assembly. Representing 45 associations across 25 countries, IFALDA has submitted technical papers advocating that safety in the age of AI must be guided by human expertise.

The federation’s position, aligning with global partners like the Airline Dispatchers Federation (ADF), is built on three principles: Accountability must remain with human professionals; Transparency is needed against "black-box" AI systems; and a Human-in-the-Loop is non-negotiable, especially in emergencies.

IFALDA calls on ICAO Member States to formally recognize the human dispatcher's role, develop global standards for human-centric AI, and strengthen Annex 6 SARPs to mandate human oversight of AI decisions.

“This is a global issue,” said Russ Williams, President of IFALDA. “We must ensure AI serves as a tool for dispatchers—not their replacement. The future of aviation safety depends on it.”

The position is supported by two technical papers: WP621 on human-centric operational control and WP623 on harmonizing flight planning to address risks from fragmented regional mandates.

IFALDA stands ready to support ICAO in developing human-centered safety policy.

About IFALDA:
The International Federation of Air Line Dispatchers’ Associations (IFALDA) is the global voice of flight dispatchers, working with ICAO to promote the highest levels of safety, professionalism, and regulatory compliance.

Media Contact:
Bernard Gonsalves
Director, Global ATM
International Federation of Air Line Dispatchers’ Associations
1 289 675 5375 | [email protected]