SITA, a global leader in air transport technology, has unveiled SITA Connect Fly, a cutting-edge connectivity solution designed to transform how airlines and airports manage passengers. Powered by Versa Networks’ technology, this service introduces unprecedented security, speed, and efficiency to airline operations, setting a new standard for passenger handling across the aviation industry.
Airports worldwide face growing pressure to modernize, as passenger volumes increase and the aviation sector continues its digital transformation. With SITA Connect Fly, airlines gain access to a secure and cost-effective Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) managed service that streamlines everything from check-in kiosks to departure control systems. The result is faster, safer, and more reliable travel experiences for passengers and smoother operations for airlines.
Closing the Gap in Passenger Handling
For years, many airports have relied on outdated infrastructure that often created bottlenecks, delays, and vulnerabilities. These inefficiencies not only slowed down passenger services but also increased operating costs for airlines.
SITA Connect Fly addresses this challenge directly, linking critical systems such as departure control services and check-in stations to a secure and cloud-ready platform. Airlines can now establish new operational sites in weeks rather than months, a leap that reduces costs and allows rapid scaling in response to passenger demand.
This acceleration in deployment times means airports can modernize quickly, ensuring passengers enjoy seamless journeys without unnecessary waiting at check-in counters or boarding gates.
Versa Technology at the Core
At the heart of Connect Fly lies VersaONE, a cloud-native platform combining advanced network performance with enterprise-grade security. Using SD-WAN technology, Versa ensures that airline applications run smoothly regardless of the transport layer—whether fiber, internet service providers, MPLS, or even 5G.
By connecting airports to the closest global cloud gateway, the system reduces latency, boosts reliability, and guarantees bandwidth for mission-critical applications. From check-in terminals to boarding systems, every process benefits from faster responses and stronger protection against cyber threats.
This marriage of networking and security allows airlines to handle even peak passenger volumes without service breakdowns, ensuring consistency and trust across the travel experience.
Enhancing the Passenger Journey
The benefits of SITA Connect Fly extend directly to travelers. Faster check-in times, more reliable boarding processes, and stronger protection of personal data are among the key improvements.
Passengers will see reduced waiting times at self-service kiosks, smoother digital boarding passes, and uninterrupted access to essential services. For frequent flyers and occasional travelers alike, the outcome is a stress-free, connected, and secure journey from the moment they arrive at the airport.
Because Connect Fly is cloud-native, airport systems are continually updated with the latest features and protections. This eliminates disruptions caused by outdated systems and ensures that travelers remain connected in both major and regional airports around the globe.
A Global Integration
SITA’s solution builds on its widely adopted Community Connect DCS, already deployed in over 400 airports worldwide. By integrating Versa’s cloud technology, Connect Fly extends this reach with smarter, more data-driven managed services.
This global rollout means airlines and airport operators gain a unified approach to managing connectivity, reducing the complexity of juggling multiple systems. Moreover, the platform is flexible enough to support remote sites and mobile endpoints, allowing even smaller airports to benefit from advanced connectivity.
SD-WAN: Flexibility and Security Combined
Traditional networks often rely on rigid physical infrastructure, creating limitations in flexibility and scalability. With SD-WAN integration, airlines can now choose their network providers and transport methods while maintaining reliability and security.
The addition of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) features further strengthens protection, ensuring that sensitive passenger data is safeguarded while maintaining high-speed performance. Airlines no longer need to compromise between cost efficiency and system security—Connect Fly delivers both in one package.
Driving Digital Transformation in Aviation
The aviation industry is undergoing rapid digital transformation, from cloud-based ticketing to AI-driven passenger services. SITA Connect Fly aligns perfectly with this transition, offering a secure, reliable, and scalable backbone for next-generation airline systems.
Airlines that adopt Connect Fly can modernize their operations faster, stay resilient against cyber threats, and continue offering competitive services in a global market where passenger experience is key.
Long-Term Benefits for Airlines and Passengers
Beyond immediate cost savings and efficiency improvements, Connect Fly positions airlines for future growth. By enabling rapid deployment, secure scaling, and seamless passenger services, SITA’s latest innovation helps airlines adapt to surging global travel demand.
For passengers, this means consistent experiences across international airports, from smoother transfers to enhanced digital services. For airlines, it translates into lower costs, stronger security, and higher customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
The launch of SITA Connect Fly, powered by Versa technology, represents a turning point in aviation connectivity. More than just a network upgrade, it is a complete solution for modernizing passenger handling systems, ensuring operational efficiency while maintaining robust security standards.
As global passenger numbers continue to rise, airlines and airports must embrace new technologies to keep pace. With Connect Fly, SITA has delivered a platform that not only meets today’s demands but also anticipates tomorrow’s challenges—making the future of air travel faster, safer, and more connected than ever before.
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