Are you curious about AI and eager to use new tools and develop new solutions? Avinor is heavily investing in artificial intelligence and has established a dedicated department for AI development and knowledge sharing.

– AI is already influencing how we work, and this development will only continue. Therefore, it is important that all employees get to be involved, says Cathrine Kirkøen-Bere, team leader for AI adoption and competence at Avinor.

At Avinor, AI is not just a buzzword. It is a concrete area of focus. In addition to developing its own AI tools and advanced AI solutions, there is a targeted effort to make the technology understandable and applicable for all employees.

In the spring of 2024, Avinor established a new department for AI development and knowledge sharing. The department has five people working on the development of new AI tools, in addition to Cathrine, who is responsible for making artificial intelligence accessible and useful for everyone at Avinor.

– We are a curious group passionate about using technology in a new way, she explains.

A significant skills boost

At Avinor, all employees are offered AI courses and professional sparring. No prior knowledge is required as long as one is curious and eager to learn. Cathrine conducts both basic AI courses and practical introductions to the tools, ensuring that all employees are updated on the rapid developments in the field.

– I find that my colleagues are curious about how they can use AI to work smarter. Many have experimented a bit at home and realize the potential is great, but need help translating that into their everyday work.

She describes it as both a skills boost and a cultural project.

– It's about creating safety and understanding. Here at Avinor, there are many with high expertise and extensive experience, and they have a lot to gain by adopting AI. But one must know what the tools can and cannot do.

Where technology and subject matter experts meet

The AI initiative is a clear part of Avinor's strategy, emphasizing close collaboration between technology, airports, and the other business areas.

In route development, AI will help analyze and identify new opportunities for flight routes. One of the most exciting projects is in winter operations, where AI will support decisions regarding chemical use on runways. This can both improve safety and reduce environmental impact and costs related to winter operations.

– We do not develop solutions in a vacuum. When we develop AI tools, such as for winter operations, we work closely with those who have been working on this for years. They know what actually works in practice. We connect technology with expertise, and it produces very good results.

– Today, many decisions are made based on experience. Now we can use historical data and AI models as support tools. It's not about replacing professionals, but about simplifying or improving decision-making processes that are currently demanding.

AI network for employees

During the fall, Avinor will start an internal AI network with employees from various parts of Avinor. These will serve as super users and liaisons between the AI department and the rest of the organization.

– With this network, we get curious and skilled people who can be sparring partners for their colleagues, and a better flow of information both ways. It will be incredibly exciting to see what we can achieve together.