.png)
Modernising airline technology does not always mean replacing legacy systems step by step. In some markets, there may be an opportunity to skip parts of that journey altogether.
Speaking to Travel Distribution News at T2RLEngage 2026, Ink's CEO Shawn Richards discussed what modernisation looks like for airlines still operating with deeply embedded legacy infrastructure, and why emerging markets may have a different path forward.
His view is that technology itself is not the biggest barrier. Airlines need the mandate to transform, while still being able to operate alongside the systems, partners and processes that will remain in place during the transition.
He also points to Africa as a market with particular potential. Rather than following every intermediate stage of aviation technology adopted elsewhere, airlines may be able to move directly towards newer platforms and operating models. The Middle East and Latin America are also seeing strong demand for modernisation, although driven by different market conditions.
The key points:
- Airline modernisation has to account for the significant amount of legacy technology still in operation.
- Transformation requires more than adding new technology to an existing stack. It needs commitment at a business and leadership level.
- Interoperability remains important because legacy systems and partners will not disappear at the same pace.
- Africa has an opportunity to bypass some intermediate technology stages and adopt newer approaches directly.
- The Middle East is seeing sustained investment in aviation modernisation.
- In Latin America, demand is being driven in part by airlines looking for more choice beyond incumbent technology providers.
Read Shawn’s full interview with Travel Distribution News.
.png)
.avif)
