SITA, the Geneva-based global leader in technology solutions for the air transport industry, has completed the regulatory formalities and legal procedures to acquire Materna IPS, a leading provider of automated passenger handling software for airports and airlines worldwide. This strategic move positions SITA as the world’s largest provider of airline passenger self-service solutions, with over 13 billion passengers using its systems globally.
Transforming the Air Travel Experience
The acquisition of Materna IPS marks a significant step in the digital transformation of the aviation industry. SITA’s expanded portfolio now includes state-of-the-art solutions for common-use check-in, self bag-drop, self-boarding, and other modern air travel processes. This integration promises to streamline check-in, baggage handling, and security processes, reducing wait times and enhancing the overall travel experience.
“By welcoming Materna IPS into the SITA family, we’re not just expanding our portfolio but revolutionising the way people travel,” said David Lavorel, CEO of SITA. “Our combined expertise and innovative solutions will create a unique, unbeatable range of services that will make air travel easier and more seamless for passengers worldwide.”
Expanding Global Reach and Market Leadership
SITA’s systems are already used by key airports across Africa, including those in South Africa, Ethiopia, Morocco, Gabon, Mozambique, Malawi, Togo, Zambia, Algeria, Djibouti, Niger, Central African Republic, Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, Egypt, as well as St Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha islands. The acquisition solidifies SITA’s position as the global leader in passenger self-service technologies.
With this acquisition, SITA strengthens its leadership in biometrics, with 85% of international air passengers served globally using its products. The company is now the number one provider of solutions like Self Bag-Drop, Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE), and Common Use Self Service (CUSS) kiosks.
Enhanced Airport Capabilities
The integration of Materna IPS’s solutions will enable airports to process more passengers efficiently and optimise resources, providing a better experience for travellers. The combined portfolio will help transform airports from mere transit hubs into digital, personalised experiences. Materna IPS brings deep specialist knowledge, agile support, and a highly customised set of solutions that complement SITA’s existing offerings.
The impact of this acquisition is expected to be far-reaching, addressing pressing industry demands for increased terminal capacities and best-in-class secure solutions. It will enable smoother, more efficient travel for passengers, enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of airport operations.
Looking Ahead
SITA and Materna IPS’s combined strengths will drive the future of air travel, offering an unmatched portfolio of solutions that will redefine airport operations and passenger experiences. As airports continue to digitise and adopt advanced technologies, this acquisition positions SITA as the undisputed market leader in end-to-end airport solutions.
“Our focus will now move to unifying our teams as we work towards combining our solutions and expertise,” added Lavorel. “With the extraordinary talent and innovative solutions brought to the table by both SITA and Materna IPS, we’ll reshape the future of travel, making it more efficient and enjoyable for passengers around the globe.”
