Sydney Airports signs technology deal with SITA

SITA has announced a five-year contract with Sydney Airport for the provision of common-use services at both Terminal 1 (international) and Terminal 2 (domestic).

The project went live on March 1, 2021, featuring SITA Flex, an advanced common-use platform, and SITA Bag Message, which eliminates the need for multiple baggage system interfaces between airlines and airports.

According to SITA, the solutions will enable the implementation of a low-touch, airline-ready mobile passenger journey, an improved baggage experience, and significant operational efficiency benefits for Sydney Airport.

“We understand the harsh impact of COVID-19 on airports globally and we’ve adapted our solutions to deliver airport operations that are resilient, agile, and highly cost-efficient,” said SITA’s president for Asia-Pacific, Sumesh Patel.

“Our goal is to provide best-in-class technology solutions and to help Sydney Airport reshape its value proposition to all its stakeholders. A key element is to ensure maximum use of existing assets and technology infrastructure.”

Sydney Airport’s vision for development had been laid out in its 2039 Master Plan, and the core tenets of this plan mirrored SITA’s mission and technology roadmap.

Enhancing the passenger experience, increasing efficiency, focusing on safety and security, and driving productivity were shared focal points.

John Raso, head of aeronautical technology and infrastructure at Sydney Airport, said: “We’re excited to be investing in future-proofing Sydney Airport with a strategic partner and market leader in the region.”

At the core of SITA’s solution is the SITA Flex platform, which introduces a common-use environment that enables easy replacement of current traditional common-use touchpoints such as check-in, gate boarding, and service desks.

It also builds on existing infrastructures – such as on-site and off-site bag drops and kiosks – which can be re-used and repurposed as required, offering efficiency benefits in a time of economic uncertainty.