SITA and NEC push for scalable, secure digital ID in aviation, BA

SITA, a global leader in air transport technology, and NEC Corporation, known for its advanced biometric authentication solutions, have signed an agreement to accelerate the adoption of digital identities in international travel. The collaboration is aimed at resolving interoperability challenges that have hindered the broader implementation of digital ID systems across the aviation industry.

Through the agreement, NEC joins SITA’s Digital Travel Ecosystem—an open, scalable framework developed with Indicio to enable real-time digital identity verification without requiring direct integrations between issuers and verifiers. The system offers a secure and privacy-first approach to credential sharing, putting data control directly in the hands of travellers.

At the centre of the ecosystem is a global Trust Network that governs how digital credentials are securely exchanged. The framework ensures that travellers can decide when and with whom they share their data, helping to protect personal information while facilitating efficient border crossings and check-ins.

Recent industry data from SITA’s Air Transport IT Insights 2024 report highlights the growing interest in biometrics, with 28 per cent of airlines and 43 per cent of airports planning to implement identity management systems in the next year. However, lack of standardisation has been a significant barrier—something this partnership seeks to address.

“After years of investment, aviation stakeholders are ready to scale digital identity solutions,” said Jeremy Springall, Senior Vice President of Borders at SITA. “Our partnership with NEC brings together global expertise to create a trusted and seamless experience for travellers.”

Nanaumi Nagamine, Senior Director of NEC’s DID Department, added: “This expanded collaboration will help establish a new global benchmark for digital identity in travel by improving security, reducing delays, and enhancing convenience.”

The partnership is expected to support a broader shift toward touchless, secure, and interoperable digital identity systems throughout the global travel ecosystem.