SITA, an air transport technology pioneer, is commemorating its 75th anniversary, symbolizing 75 years of revolutionary advancements, steadfast dedication, and outstanding aviation industry support.
Established in 1949 by 11 innovative airlines, SITA has been owned and driven by the air transport industry since its inception. SITA’s history is marked by ongoing technological advancements. In 1950, it embarked on creating a global data network, which expanded to encompass 75 communication centers for 52 airline members by 1957. In 1966, SITA introduced the world’s first operational network utilizing packet switching principles, continuously leveraging the latest IT and telecommunications developments. It even played a role in the inception of the internet in 1969 by activating the world’s first distributed network with nodes.
As SITA progressed throughout the years, it consistently enhanced its network while broadening its capabilities to assist airlines, airports, and governments in various areas such as passenger and baggage processing, border management, digital optimization, and aircraft sustainability. In 1984, SITA launched the Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) system to meet the demands of airlines, airports, and passengers during the Los Angeles Olympic Games, significantly increasing the capacity of domestic US terminals to handle multiple airlines.
SITA’s involvement in major global sporting events extended beyond that. They developed the world’s first electronic visa system for the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000 and collaborated with government, airport, and airline stakeholders to integrate digital identity and travel authorization for a seamless fan experience at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. In 2017, SITA introduced SITA Smart Path, a groundbreaking biometric ID management technology that enables touchless and digital travel, supporting airports and airlines during the COVID-19 pandemic and paving the way for universal digital identities in the future.
SITA demonstrates its dedication to the rapidly changing sector through its strategic approach, placing importance on adaptability, nimbleness, and originality. The organization is fully committed to adopting Cloud and SaaS solutions, along with seamless end-to-end experiences that leverage data analysis and transparency to enhance operations and interactions throughout the entire journey. Prominent objectives encompass operational efficiency, digital advancement, and sustainability within the industry, encompassing improvements in turnaround efficiency, complete biometric-enabled journeys, and streamlined aircraft operations.
