Forthcode launches offline-first AI intelligence layer for aviation

New platform connects passenger intent, airline knowledge and inflight entertainment

Aviation technology company Forthcode has announced the launch of ANiX, an AI intelligence layer designed specifically for aviation, connecting passenger intent, airline knowledge, onboard systems, crew workflows and commerce within a single intelligent environment.

The solution, not yet available will be unveiled at ForsaTEK 2026 in Dubai next week, where Forthcode will demonstrate one of its first major applications, bringing AI directly into the aircraft cabin through inflight entertainment.

The ForsaTEK demonstration builds on Forthcode’s work through the Emirates Aviation X Lab ecosystem and collaboration with aviation technology partners including Thales and Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, bringing together inflight entertainment, connected-cabin technology, crew applications, catering intelligence and offline AI.

Unlike most consumer AI that relies heavily on continuous cloud connectivity, ANiX has been developed around the realities of aviation, which typically sees it offline for majority of the time whilst cruising at altitude.

The offline-first architecture enables selected AI capabilities to continue operating at 35,000 feet when connectivity may be intermittent, expensive or unavailable.

Through an ANiX-enabled IFE system, passengers can interact conversationally with airline content and services, such as which onboard meal is vegan, request a movie suitable for a child, or seek destination recommendations during a stopover.

Information can be airline approved to provide relevant responses and where systems allow, the passenger intent can also be passed into crew applications, onboard inventory, catering or commerce systems.

Ajith Balakumar, CEO of Forthcode, said: “AI in aviation needs to do much more than answer questions. The real opportunity is connecting passenger intent with the systems, knowledge and people capable of acting on it. 

"We want to move from AI that talks to AI that understands context and enables action, including in an environment where continuous connectivity cannot be taken for granted.”

Forthcode worked with the Emirates Aviation X Lab ecosystem and aviation technology partners including Thales and Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, for inflight ntertainment, connected-cabin technology, crew applications, catering intelligence and offline AI.

The initial cabin showcase is the first stage of a broader vision for ANiX, with Forthcode ultimately hoping to create an intelligence layer spanning passenger experience, crew operations, commerce and airline operational systems.