Airport futures: Coming in to land now

It’s no secret. Since the global pandemic, airports everywhere have been under pressure: staff shortages, financial constraints, infrastructure limitations, rising passenger numbers and ever-increasing expectations.

Even well-admired airports have been operating on a knife-edge: moving people and managing flights… but always a small ‘staffing issue’ away from potential chaos. Queues snaking out of the door. Passengers sleeping on the floor. PR disasters waiting to happen.

From Resilience to Innovation

However, the airport business is resilient. The bounce back from the Covid years proves that. Yet hard work and can-do-spirit can only take airport professionals so far.

The industry desperately needs new ideas, right now. To get your brain working, to give you a sense of what’s new at leading airports around the world now, SITA has compiled an overview of trends and technology which we believe will transform air travel.
Our experts have been hard at work, looking for innovations. With 75 years’ experience in ATI, we like ideas that work in the real world. We’re trialling ‘proof of concept’ initiatives with major ATI partners globally.

That’s also why we’re sharing our ‘Find Your Flow’ white paper. It’s a great overview of the new ideas that are happening right now – from off-airport processing to the Volocopter.

The New Reality for Airports

One of our key insights for every airport is the importance of data and digital transformation. As passenger numbers soar, so do their expectations for an experience that works like clockwork.

SITA’s solutions, particularly in biometric technology, are leading the way in creating a more efficient, more integrated airport experience.

Biometrics are a current reality. In major airports worldwide, SITA’s Smart Path solution is literally years ahead. Processing millions of identities at lightning speed, our biometrics platform allows passengers to move through airports with ease. Their faces are their boarding passes or even passports. Our biometrics enhance the customer experience but also eases your airport operations by reducing manual processing.

The Power of Data

Another pivotal point is the role of data in modern airport management. Airports are awash with information. Yet much of it remains unused. Joined-up data can revolutionize your airport operations. It can improve queue management. It can allocate resources more efficiently. And real-time insights can create a better experience for passengers.

Our recent project with Canada’s largest airport, Toronto Pearson International, proves the point. Our Total Optimizer solution shows how integrating data across airport functions will deliver operational efficiencies and cost savings.

Collaborating for a Better Future

It seems obvious but working together more closely is an important step forward too. How do you break down silos between airports, airlines, hotels, inter-model transport and other stakeholders? How can we all create a more integrated and responsive air travel ecosystem? By working together, the industry can better meet the evolving needs of passengers, ensuring safety, security, and satisfaction.

Time to Find Your Flow

SITA's Find Your Flow is not just a white paper. It's a call to action.

Airport leaders want to future-proof their operations. And that means rethinking strategies and adopting innovative technologies.

The future of air travel is here. Dive into SITA’s white paper to discover how you can unlock the full potential of your airport, today and tomorrow.