SAE International and EUROCAE Publish Landmark AI Taxonomy Document for the Global Aeronautical Industry

AIR6987 / ER-027 Marks a Significant Milestone in Standardizing Global
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Efforts

WARRENDALE, Pa. (Dec. 12, 2024) - SAE International^® and EUROCAE announce the publication of SAE AIR6987 / EUROCAE ER-027: Artificial Intelligence in Aeronautical Systems: Taxonomy, a key document designed to shape the future of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the aviation industry. This taxonomy, jointly developed by SAE International and EUROCAE, aims to clarify language and concepts surrounding AI techniques used in aeronautical products and sets the stage for further AI standardization efforts in the global aviation industry.

Emphasizing the importance of this initiative, David Alexander, senior director of standards, SAE International, stated, "Talking the same language is an essential step for the industry, authorities, and the entire stakeholder community around the world to align on practices for AI and Machine Learning so it can be used productively and safely across the aviation spectrum. G-34 and WG-114 are applauded for taking a strategic approach to implementing AI through the initial release of this first consensus aviation AI taxonomy document-which can then be updated as the subject matter evolves. We look forward to the utilization - and feedback - on AIR6987 / ER-027 as the committee finalizes their aviation AI process document in 2025."

Anna von Groote, director general of EUROCAE, added, "This taxonomy is a critical enabler for the safe and efficient integration of artificial intelligence into aeronautical systems. By establishing a common language and shared understanding, it paves the way for harmonized global efforts to develop robust AI standards. EUROCAE is proud to have collaborated with SAE International on this landmark document, and we look forward to continuing the journey into the future of aviation with robust, high-quality international standards. We thank all contributors for their efforts and dedication to develop this taxonomy and the future standards."

With AI practices evolving and shaping the future of flight, AIR6987 / ER-027 serves as a foundational tool for industry leaders, regulators, and engineers to safely and effectively integrate AI into aeronautical systems. The document provides comprehensive classification of AI techniques, which will be pivotal for AI-based systems in both airborne and ATM/ANS domains, covering both crewed and uncrewed aircraft.

This important document was developed through a collaboration between SAE International's G-34 Committee and EUROCAE's WG-114 working together to set the global standard for AI technologies in the aviation industry. The release of AIR6987 / ER-027 is part of a broader effort to establish comprehensive AI guidelines for the aviation community and will be continuously updated as new developments arise.

SAE AIR6987, Artificial Intelligence in Aeronautical Systems: Taxonomy is available here: https://www.sae.org/standards/content/air6987/

About SAE International^®
SAE International is a global organization committed to advancing mobility knowledge and solutions for the benefit of humanity. By engaging nearly 200,000 engineers, technical experts and volunteers, we connect and educate mobility professionals to enable safe, clean, and accessible mobility solutions. We act on two priorities: encouraging a lifetime of learning for mobility engineering professionals and setting the standards for industry engineering. We strive for a better world through the work of our philanthropic SAE Foundation, including award-winning programs like A World In Motion® and the Collegiate Design Series™. More at http://www.sae.org.

About EUROCAE
EUROCAE develops high-quality aviation standards, which are built upon the expertise of 5.000 highly skilled experts nominated by EUROCAE's 500 members. EUROCAE standards are referenced by all major European and international regulators. They build upon state-of-the art expertise of its members, are fit for purpose and adopted internationally, support operations, development and regulations, and address emerging global aviation challenges. More at www.eurocae.net.

###

SAE Media Contact:
SAE International
Jeff Laskowski
248.925.4770
[email protected]