There is growing discussion across the transport sector about the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI-enabled solutions could help tackle some of the sector’s biggest challenges, from reducing its carbon footprint to improving the safety, security and performance of transport networks. However, as AI becomes increasingly integrated into transport systems and everyday life, it is essential that it serves the public interest and reflects our shared values.
The 4/2026 edition of the STA Expert Perception Tracker focused on operations and connectivity. From 1 to 30 October 2026, 101 transport professionals from 22 countries shared their views on the role of AI in network operations, safety and resilience, and on how infrastructure condition affects the reliability of transport services.
The results show that experts recognise AI’s potential but remain cautious about relying on it where safety is at stake. 86.1% believe AI-enabled operational systems can improve network performance, yet only 5.9% consider AI-based safety and resilience systems ready for large-scale deployment. Meanwhile, 90.1% say the condition and maintenance of infrastructure influence users’ access to reliable services, confirming that physical infrastructure remains the foundation of reliable transport.
Across its four 2026 editions, the STA Expert Perception Tracker gathered more than 500 responses from transport professionals, offering expert insights on key transport topics and contributing to an annual knowledge base. In the coming year, STA will launch a new series of the Expert Perception Tracker, exploring the topics continuing to bring Europe’s expert voices into the debate.
Read the full press release.
