SITA to provide aviation IT solutions to the cruise sector

An initial agreement with ship manager and service provider, Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM), will kick-off this journey to accelerate digitalization across the whole value chain.

With over 75 years’ experience in the air travel industry, SITA serves 95% of international destinations in the air travel industry, and over 2,500 airlines, airports, ground handlers and governments all working closely with the company.

CEO of SmartSea, Julian Panter, said: ‘SITA’s launch of SmartSea and our first agreement with CSM marks a strategic step both in terms of SITA’s wider growth strategy as well as the digitalization of the maritime and cruise industries.’

Digital border solutions

85% of international air passengers globally benefit from SITA digital border solutions and Panter believes SmartSea can greatly improve the passenger experience when it comes to cruising, ‘by working with the operators and the cruise terminals on key enhancements, which can either be leveraged by the aviation sector, or because via SITA, SmartSea can connect the cruise industry and the aviation sector more seamlessly.’

Citing just some examples, SmartSea can provide a platform in which passengers can check in for their flight and cruise simultaneously, and this can be facilitated through a single app or website, reducing the need for multiple check-ins, he explained.

A baggage tracking system that allows passengers to track their luggage in real-time through their mobile devices, ensuring peace of mind and reducing lost luggage incidents, is another service that the cruise sector could benefit from.

‘The implementation of security solutions that facilitate the secure sharing of passenger data between airlines, airports, and cruise operators, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations while enhancing the travel experience is another angle, Panter said. This could include predictive analytics to manage passenger flow and reduce congestion,’ he added.

Cruise termiinal synergies

SmartSea has identified synergies with cruise terminals too by bringing airport technology into the terminals it can streamline the boarding and check-in process for passengers enabling them to walk through smart gates, check-in online, use facial recognition as their tickets and to verify their identity, thus reducing time spent at the terminal.

‘SmartSea’s expertise in IT and telecommunications positions it well to drive significant improvements in the integration of passenger experiences between airlines, airports, and cruise terminals. By focusing on unified systems, real-time information, advanced luggage handling, improved communication, digital travel documents, loyalty program integration, and smart infrastructure, SmartSea can help create a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for passengers transitioning between air and sea travel,’ commented Panter.