First Datathon Boosts Aviation Diversity with IATA and AWS

With Amazon Web Services (AWS), the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is launching a virtual datathon to encourage the development of data-based solutions for furthering gender diversity in the aviation industry. The datathon builds on IATA’s 25by2025 initiative‘s success.

“The 25by2025 initiative launched in 2019 prompted the industry to take a closer look at gender diversity of its workforce and take steps to ensure it reflects the society it serves. It complements the existing IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards and further strengthens gender diversity in the industry,” said Jane Hoskisson, IATA’s Director of Talent, Learning, Engagement and Diversity.

The aviation sector working together to strengthen gender diversity within the industry is fantastic, and we are thrilled to be working with IATA on this virtual datathon. AWS’s Intergovernmental Organizations Leader Charlene-Elise Anderson stated, “Projects like these are crucial to fostering diversity and inclusion globally and empowering diverse communities.”

One of two challenges will be presented to participants during the Datathon:

– What are the best ways to demonstrate the impact of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to a CEO using data and/or new technology?

– Using data and/or new technologies, how can airlines improve the gender balance on the flight deck and in other technical roles?

Participation is open to:

Registration for the datathon begins on 22 March and is open to airlines, airports, software vendors, start-ups, systems integrators (SIs), and other aviation organizations. Participants will have access to an AWS environment to build their proofs of concept. All teams will have the opportunity to participate in training sessions conducted by AWS architects and industry experts from IATA and its member airlines on technical and business topics.
A timeline:

There will be a virtual datathon between 22 March and 28 April 2023.
In judging:

A panel of independent experts from IATA and AWS will evaluate submissions. A key criterion will be the originality of the solution, its applicability in the aviation sector, and its value-add to further strengthening gender diversity.

Please contact the following for more information:

Corporate Communications
Contact: +41 22 770 2967
Send an email to corpcomms@iata.org

Notes for Editors:

– IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.

– You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.

– Global Media Days media kit