In a groundbreaking collaboration, SITA, a global leader in air transport technology, is rolling out its Smart Path technology at nine Indian airports in partnership with the AAI. This initiative, part of the broader DigiYatra project, marks a pivotal step in transforming air travel in India. By introducing SITA’s cutting-edge contactless boarding pass system, the initiative aims to streamline the passenger journey, significantly reducing waiting times and boosting overall airport efficiency.

 

SITA’s advanced technologies, including the Smart Path system, Passenger Flow Management (PFM) solution, and Face Pods, will deliver biometric solutions at various touchpoints throughout the airport. This approach ensures a contact-free travel experience, empowering passengers to manage their journey with ease while minimizing delays.

 

The collaboration is a vital aspect of AAI’s strategy to digitalize airports across India under the DigiYatra initiative, spearheaded by the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation. This program aims to revolutionize air travel by offering passengers a paperless airport experience powered by advanced facial recognition technology.

 

The DigiYatra initiative was officially launched at an inauguration event at Visakhapatnam Airport, attended by key figures including the Honorable Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Rammohan Naidu, and other notable guests, such as the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Shri Murlidhar Mohol, and AAI Chairman, Shri M. Suresh. The airports in Visakhapatnam, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, Indore, Raipur, Bagdogra, Patna, Goa (Dabolim), and Coimbatore are among those benefiting from this deployment of SITA technology.

 

SITA’s biometric technology is set to revolutionize the passenger experience at Indian airports. “With a focus on delivering Digital Travel, enhancing airport efficiency, and future-proofing operations with smart, agile solutions, India has a unique opportunity to transform its airports with world-class infrastructure,” said Sumesh Patel, President of APAC at SITA. “In this connected era, ensuring seamless travel is crucial, and we are committed to assisting India in its digitalization journey as the DigiYatra initiative expands.”

 

India envisions DigiYatra as a transformative force for both the aviation sector and society at large. With SITA’s collaboration, the initiative aims to set new standards for passenger experience and operational efficiency across the nation’s airports.

 

In 2023, more than 20 million users engaged with the DigiYatra platform, and with plans to extend its services to 28 Indian airports, the initiative aims to encompass approximately 90% of the domestic flying population. The DigiYatra Foundation is also set to align with IATA’s One ID initiative to enhance global interoperability, further improving the seamless travel experience.

 

In July 2023, SITA entered into a landmark agreement with AAI to provide technology solutions to 43 of India’s largest airports. This partnership will enhance over 2,700 passenger touchpoints, marking one of the largest deployments aimed at improving passenger processing.

 

Having partnered with the Indian government since 1952, SITA remains a staunch advocate of the “Make In India” initiative, aligning its operations to support government aspirations and enhance local capabilities.