The mediating role of digital leadership in the impact of digital transformation on employee behaviors: A field study in the civil aviation sector

This thesis investigates the impact of digital leadership on employee behavior in the civil aviation sector during the digital transformation process. The research addresses the effects of digital transformation and leadership on employee behaviors and the effective management of these processes. Findings deepen theoretical concepts while offering practical recommendations for managing digital transformation and leadership strategies in civil aviation. Data were collected through surveys from 525 employees at Istanbul Airport Operations IGA. Data collected through online surveys include employee demographic characteristics and variables such as digital transformation, digital leadership, job satisfaction, performance, innovation, psychological well-being, emotional burnout, and intention to leave. This study aims to identify the mediating role of digital leadership in the impact of digital transformation on employee behaviors. Data, collected under principles of anonymity and confidentiality, were analyzed using SPSS for Windows 25.0 and SmartPLS 4 programs. Results indicate that digital transformation and leadership processes have significant effects on employee behaviors in the civil aviation sector and that managing these processes is of critical importance. This thesis provides the civil aviation sector and the related academic community with strategic recommendations, offering a comprehensive perspective on the impacts of digital transformation and leadership on employee behaviors.