SITA, a leader in air transport technology, has partnered with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to roll out its innovative Smart Path technology at nine major airports. This initiative is part of the broader DigiYatra project, aimed at modernising the Indian aviation landscape through a contactless boarding process that promises to enhance passenger experiences and streamline airport operations.
The deployment of this technology marks a pivotal shift towards digitalisation in Indian airports. By integrating biometric solutions, including Smart Path, Passenger Flow Management (PFM), and Face Pods, AAI intends to create a seamless travel experience across critical touchpoints. Passengers can look forward to reduced waiting times and a more efficient journey from check-in to boarding. The DigiYatra initiative was officially launched at Visakhapatnam Airport, attended by notable figures including the Union Minister of Civil Aviation, and AAI Chairman. The initial phase of this technology implementation will cover airports in Visakhapatnam, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, Indore, Raipur, Bagdogra, Patna, Goa (Dabolim), and Coimbatore. This rollout reflects a strategic move to digitalise the travel experience, catering to an increasing number of passengers—over 20 million have already used the DigiYatra platform in 2023 alone.
As passenger volumes continue to rise, the need for modernised infrastructure becomes ever more pressing. President of SITA’s Asia-Pacific operations, emphasised that the introduction of Smart Path technology is not merely about improving efficiency; it is about transforming how travellers experience air travel. This transformation is especially pertinent as airports aim to cater to 90% of domestic travellers through the initiative’s planned expansion to 28 airports nationwide. The partnership between SITA and AAI, formalised in July 2023, involves providing technological solutions for 43 airports, impacting over 2,700 passenger touchpoints. This deal is recognised as one of the largest in the region and underlines SITA’s longstanding commitment to supporting the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative since 1952.
From a sustainability perspective, the DigiYatra initiative and Smart Path technology represent a significant stride towards reducing the carbon footprint associated with air travel. By streamlining operations and minimising congestion, the technology promotes a more eco-friendly travel environment. Furthermore, the use of biometric solutions can lead to reduced paper waste by eliminating the need for printed boarding passes, aligning with global sustainability goals.
