Artificial intelligence has become one of the most important technologies in the development of modern aviation systems, contributing to improved autopilot performance and enhanced autonomous navigation capabilities. These systems rely on advanced software and intelligent algorithms to analyze data received from sensors, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, radar, cameras, and altitude and airspeed measurement instruments. This enables accurate decision-making during flight and reduces the need for human intervention in certain operational tasks. Software engineering plays a fundamental role in designing and developing these systems by creating programs capable of processing large amounts of data in real time, monitoring aircraft conditions, analyzing weather conditions, and identifying suitable flight paths. Artificial intelligence algorithms can also detect abnormal patterns in operational data, help identify potential hazards, and provide information that supports pilot decisions or automated control systems, thereby contributing to improved safety and operational efficiency. In autonomous navigation, intelligent technologies help aircraft determine their position and direction, update flight paths according to surrounding conditions, and avoid certain obstacles when the necessary systems and information are available. These capabilities are particularly important for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which are used in aerial surveillance, imaging, infrastructure inspection, and operations requiring specific tasks to be performed without continuous human control. However, the level of autonomy varies depending on the type of aircraft, the systems employed, and the nature of the mission. Despite the advantages offered by artificial intelligence, the development of autonomous aviation systems faces significant challenges, including ensuring software reliability, protecting systems against cyberattacks, and handling unexpected equipment failures and weather conditions. Therefore, these systems require rigorous engineering testing, verification of algorithm safety, and backup mechanisms to ensure safe responses to emergency situations, while maintaining human oversight in accordance with operational requirements and aviation safety standards. The integration of software engineering and artificial intelligence represents an important step toward developing more efficient aircraft capable of performing complex tasks. Future advancements are expected to improve navigation accuracy, enhance flight management efficiency, and reduce operational errors, while maintaining the need for human supervision and strict safety standards. Thus, the role of artificial intelligence extends beyond automating aviation functions to supporting decision-making and developing technological solutions that contribute to a more advanced and sustainable future for the aviation industry. Assist. Lecturer Hiba Hussein Abd Al-Abbas