- The Deloitte survey included 21 airline CEOs from April to May 2026.
- Cost reduction and margin protection lead current priorities.
- AI leads technology investment with focus on revenue management.
- Fleet modernisation increased as a sustainability action.
- Talent shortages and cultural resistance remain key AI barriers.
Airline CEOs have placed cost reduction and financial discipline at the top of their agendas according to the latest Deloitte survey. They focus on protecting margins while navigating high fuel prices, delivery delays and economic pressures. Many carriers adjust investment priorities in response to current market conditions.
Onboard product enhancements recorded one of the sharpest drops in priority. Customer experience initiatives shifted towards digital basics such as mobile boarding passes and transparent pricing. AI adoption rose sharply with revenue management and dynamic pricing leading use cases at over 80pc.
Fleet modernisation gained ground as a key sustainability measure while sustainable ground operations declined. The survey of 21 airline CEOs highlighted talent shortages and legacy system integration as main barriers to AI implementation. Operational execution and strategic thinking remained the most valued leadership traits.
Deloitte shared “in customer experience, as in so many areas right now, delay is the most expensive option.”
