SITA announces partnership with Versa Networks for SD-WAN for air transportation industry

GENEVA - SITA in Geneva, Switzerland announced a new partnership with secure access service edge (SASE) company Versa Networks in Santa Clara, California to launch SITA Connect Go, a multi-tenant edge Secure SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) solution designed for the air transport industry. 
 
The companies have developed SITA Connect Go, a software-based solution that allows multiple airlines, ground handlers, and other tenants to securely access the same virtualized infrastructure at airports and in the cloud. This brings flexibility and innovation to support the airline industry's journey into multi-cloud adoption.
 
The new solution will enhance SITA's extensive network connectivity, which bridges over 600 airports and more than 750 destinations worldwide, providing airlines with unrivaled connectivity performance and quick, secure access to airport applications and systems through the AirportHub shared platform. The ready-to-use Versa-powered SITA Connect Go solution means airlines can make rapid route changes and use shared airport infrastructure without a huge upfront investment.
 
SITA Connect Go provides a multi-layer security design with a cloud-native network and security suite for users wherever they are. The software-based solution will also adapt as new industry requirements arise, allowing them to adopt new functionalities as they are introduced without having to invest in costly upgrades.
 
"As a longstanding industry partner trusted with bridging more than 60% of the air transport community's data exchange, we are proud to introduce the next generation of SDN technology," Martin Smillie, Senior Vice President, SITA Communications & Data Exchange, said. "The current volatile economic environment requires that airlines adjust to passenger peaks and troughs, wherever they want to fly. In Versa, we have found a tried-and-tested partner with market-leading technology to support the complex requirements specific to the air transport industry. We look forward to helping our customers reap the benefits."
 
"We are delighted to partner with SITA to meet the connectivity needs of today's air transport industry," Hector Avalos, VP MSP EMEA of Versa Networks, said. "With today's shifting travel landscape, industry stakeholders need greater connectivity, agility, unprecedented reliability, and airtight network security. We have tailored the new solution to meet these requirements and power the future of air travel."