Airbus forms unified Skywise subsidiary to unify data analytics and flight operations software

TOULOUSE, France - Airbus in Toulouse, France, has launched a new wholly owned subsidiary, Skywise, combining its Skywise data platform and NAVBLUE flight operations software into a single entity. The new company is intended to integrate flight, technical, and ground operations across Airbus and non-Airbus fleets.

The move brings together two complementary technology portfolios. Airbus’ Skywise platform provides a cloud-based data environment that aggregates aircraft sensor data, maintenance records, and flight operations information into a unified data backbone. The platform supports predictive maintenance, reliability analysis, and fleet performance optimization using advanced analytics and machine learning models trained on large-scale fleet data. Skywise also enables digital twin-like representations of aircraft systems and provides application development tools for operators and maintenance organizations to build custom analytics workflows.

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NAVEBLUE software

NAVBLUE adds operational software used by pilots and airline operations centers, including flight planning and trajectory optimization tools, electronic flight bag applications for cockpit use, and air traffic management and dispatch systems. The portfolio also includes flight data analysis platforms that support safety monitoring, event detection, and regulatory compliance through post-flight data processing.

By merging these capabilities, Airbus is creating a unified digital architecture that connects operational workflows with analytics. Flight planning, execution, and maintenance data generated through NAVBLUE applications can be ingested into the Skywise platform, where it is analyzed and fed back into dispatch, maintenance planning, and fleet management processes. This closed-loop approach is intended to improve fuel efficiency, reduce unscheduled maintenance, and enhance operational decision-making.

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Airbus says the Skywise platform currently connects more than 12,000 aircraft worldwide and will evolve from a data platform into a broader digital solutions business under the new structure. The integration leverages NAVBLUE’s expertise in flight operations and air traffic management to expand Airbus’ presence in the airline digital services market.

"By combining the best of our digital services, the new entity aims at integrating our technical strengths and delivering greater value for customers," said Cristina Aguilar, senior vice president of Customer Services for Commercial Aircraft at Airbus. "The digital sector is the fastest-growing segment across the entire services market, as highlighted in our latest Global Services Forecast. Our customers require resilient, end-to-end, and interoperable digital solutions. The newly created Skywise will be the only provider to do so by combining OEM expertise and digital know-how."

Airbus says the subsidiary will employ about 750 people worldwide, with operations spanning Canada, France, India, Poland, Singapore, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and the United States.