China Mobile showcases AI aircraft maintenance solution

China Mobile showcased an artificial intelligence-powered aircraft maintenance solution during Mobile World Congress Shanghai 2026, highlighting the potential of 5G, digital twin technology and large language models to support the intelligent upgrade of China's civil aviation maintenance sector, the company said.

As China's aircraft fleet continues to expand, maintenance demand is becoming more intensive. Challenges in traditional maintenance, including heavy reliance on manual work, relatively low efficiency and limited intelligent capabilities, have further increased the industry's need for digital tools, the company said.

The solution targets key scenarios including engine maintenance, component repair, hangar inspection and line maintenance. It integrates 5G private networks, computing power networks, AI visual recognition and digital twin capabilities to support airlines, airports and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service providers, according to the company.

In practical applications, the 5G+AI fuselage defect inspection terminal uses high-precision image collection and AI algorithms to rapidly identify and mark defects on aircraft surfaces, improving inspection efficiency and accuracy, the company said.

The 5G+AR intelligent engine inspection terminal provides 3D disassembly guidance and real-time maintenance progress tracking, helping improve operational standardization and coordination, the company said.

The company said it will continue to promote the integration of 5G and AI across the aircraft maintenance value chain, supporting the domestic development and large-scale application of key technologies in civil aviation maintenance.