MODERNIZING MIDDLEWARE INFRASTRUCTURE: AN AMERICAN AIRLINES CASE STUDY
Keywords:
Digital Transformation, Middleware Modernization, Aviation Infrastructure, Cloud-Native Architecture, Security EnhancementAbstract
This article examines the comprehensive middleware transformation initiative at American Airlines, demonstrating how modern architectural patterns and innovative technologies can revolutionize airline operations. The transformation encompassed multiple facets, including Kubernetes migration, real-time messaging architecture implementation, enhanced security protocols, and sophisticated monitoring solutions. Through strategic implementation of cloud-native technologies and microservices architecture, American Airlines significantly improved system reliability, operational efficiency, and security posture. The article highlights the critical role of organizational change management, security-first practices, and cross-functional collaboration in ensuring successful digital transformation. The initiative established new benchmarks for system performance and security in the aviation industry and laid a robust foundation for future technological advancement.
References
Iryna Heiets, Jiezhuoma La, et al., "Digital transformation of airline industry," Research in Transportation Economics Volume 92, May 2022, 101186. Available: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0739885922000099
Wei Wang, Lei Fan, et al., "A New Data Processing Architecture for Multi-Scenario Applications in Aviation Manufacturing," IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery, vol. 34, no. 5, pp. 1788–1797, Oct. 2019. Available: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?arnumber=8746121
Afkham Azeez; Srinath Perera, et al., "Multi-tenant SOA Middleware for Cloud Computing," IEEE 3rd International Conference on Cloud Computing 2010. Available: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/5557959
Adrian Solomon; Zachary Crawford, et al., "Transitioning from Legacy Air Traffic Management to Airspace Management through Secure, Cloud-Native Automation Solutions," IEEE/AIAA 40th Digital Avionics Systems Conference (DASC) 2021. Available: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9594313
Hsien-Wen Deng; Mizanur Rahman, et al., "Commercial Cloud Computing for Connected Vehicle Applications in Transportation Cyberphysical Systems: A Case Study," IEEE Intelligent Transportation Systems Magazine ( Volume: 13, Issue: 1, Spring 2021). Available: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9290006
Bader Alouffi, Muhammad Hasnain, "A Systematic Literature Review on Cloud Computing Security: Threats and Mitigation Strategies," in IEEE Access, vol. 9, 2021. Available: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?arnumber=9404177
Shakthi Weerasinghe, Supunmali Ahangama, "Predictive Maintenance and Performance Optimisation in Aircrafts using Data Analytics," 3rd International Conference on Information Technology Research (ICITR), 2018. Available: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8736157
Zakir Ahmad Sheikh, Yashwant Singh, et al., "Intelligent and secure framework for critical infrastructure (CPS): Current trends, challenges, and future scope," Computer Communications Volume 193, 1 September 2022, Pages 302-331. Available: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0140366422002547
Adrián Peña Sánchez and Funlade Sunmola, "Factors Influencing Effectiveness of Lean Maintenance Repair and
Overhaul in Aviation," International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Operations Management (IEOM) Bristol, UK, July 24-25, 2017. Available: https://www.ieomsociety.org/ieomuk/papers/198.pdf
J. Hwang, K. Bai, et al., "Automation and orchestration framework for large-scale enterprise cloud migration,"IBM Journal of Research and Development (Volume: 60, Issue: 2-3, March-May 2016). Available: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/7442598
Clarisse Feio, Nuno Santos, et al., "An Empirical Study of DevSecOps Focused on Continuous Security Testing," IEEE European Symposium on Security and Privacy Workshops (EuroS&PW), 2024. Available: https://syssec.dpss.inesc-id.pt/papers/feio_eurospw24.pdf
Lucy Ellen Lwakatare, Terhi Kilamo, et al., "DevOps in practice: A multiple case study of five companies," Information and Software Technology, Volume 114, October 2019, Pages 217-230. Available: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0950584917302793
Saidulu Aldas, Andrew Babakian, "Cloud-Native Service Mesh Readiness for 5G and Beyond," IEEE Access, vol. 11, pp. 134829-134842, 2023. Available: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/10327727
Tuğçe Bilen,Berk Canberk, et al., "AI-Driven Aeronautical Ad Hoc Networks for 6G Wireless: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Road Ahead," Sensors, vol. 22, no. 10, p. 3731, 2022.
Available: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/22/10/3731