As the aviation industry evolves, stakeholders across various sectors – including governments, airlines, and airports - are rapidly adopting digital identities and biometric solutions. With 90% of airports investing in major biometric programs and 70% of airlines expected to have biometric ID management in place by 2026 (SITA 2023 Air Transport IT Insights), digital transformation is becoming an urgent priority. Recognized as the global leader in air transport technology, SITA is working with industry stakeholders to build a future powered by digital travel.
Founded in 1949 by 11 pioneering airlines, SITA has always been at the forefront of the industry’s evolving needs. For 75 years, it has harnessed cutting-edge advancements in IT, telecoms, and wider tech to enhance travel. As the industry’s partner in digitalization, SITA accelerated the shift to touchless digital travel during the pandemic. Today, the company is focused on advancing biometrics and digital identities, redefining what it means to provide a secure, efficient, and connected travel experience.
Consider SITA Smart Path, which transformed Frankfurt Airport into Europe’s first airport offering biometric touchpoints at every step of the passenger journey. Passenger processing times were cut down by an impressive 30%, giving passengers a faster, more autonomous airport experience. SITA’s Digital Travel Credentials (DTCs) mark another leap forward in secure and seamless travel. Built on an open, secure, and interoperable framework, DTCs enable smooth identity verification for travelers while meeting stringent government security requirements. In Aruba, SITA launched a pilot project at Queen Beatrix International Airport, enabling travelers to use their DTCs to enter the country and access select venues across the island, enhancing convenience and security. This project aligns with IATA’s One ID vision and ICAO’s DTC standards, illustrating how SITA’s innovations bridge passenger needs with regulatory requirements.
As digital transformation reshapes aviation, interoperability is crucial. SITA’s Digital Travel Ecosystem offers an open-to-all trust network that connects key players in the industry to advance the way passengers travel around the world. Through this ecosystem, SITA enables trusted digital identities to be used across borders and systems, without requiring complex integrations between issuers and verifiers. This approach supports the adoption of unified standards across the industry, simplifying travel while empowering passengers to maintain control over their personal data and privacy.
SITA’s recent acquisition of Intelligent Passenger Solutions (IPS) further underscores its dedication to creating smooth, efficient journeys for travelers worldwide. Operating as “IPS. a SITA company,” this gold-standard addition to SITA’s portfolio brings a range of advanced self-service solutions, including bag drops, kiosks, and touchless scanners. Travelers can soon experience shorter wait times, easier navigation through the airport, and a new level of personalization and accessibility that makes each journey feel effortless.
In a time of rapid change across aviation, SITA is leading the charge, pioneering digital solutions that support the unique needs of airlines, airports, and travelers alike. With each innovation, SITA creates a future where secure, seamless travel is more than just a vision – it is a reality.
