SITA launches new secure connectivity service for faster airline passenger handling
Summary points:
- SITA launched Connect Fly, a next-generation managed secure connectivity service for airlines, powered by Versa technology.
- The service connects departure control systems and web applications directly to passenger workstations such as check-in kiosks.
- Built on Versa’s SD-WAN and SASE platform, it combines networking and cybersecurity to improve resilience and flexibility.
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - SITA, an air transportation technology company based in Geneva, Switzerland, announced the availability of its next-generation secure connectivity managed service, SITA Connect Fly, powered by technology from Versa Networks, a Santa Clara, Calif.-based networking and cybersecurity company with expertise in Universal Secure Access Service Edge (SASE).
SITA Connect Fly offers airlines and the broader transport sector a quicker and more secure method to link departure control systems and web applications directly to passenger-facing workstations, such as check-in kiosks. With Versa SD-WAN technology, which delivers software-defined networking and integrated cyber protection, airlines can streamline operations, enhance resilience, and reduce the time to open new stations from months to weeks.
For passengers, the result is less waiting at check-in and boarding, stronger protections for personal data, and a smoother experience.
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"Airlines across the world are telling us the same thing: They need faster, more resilient systems to keep up with growing passenger volumes and increased cloud services," said Martin Smillie, senior vice president for communications and data exchange at SITA. "SITA Connect Fly provides a managed secure connectivity service for pre-flight operations worldwide, helping reduce the risk of outages and keeping network and security policies consistent across airports. In practice, this means smoother check-in, more reliable boarding, and a less stressful journey for passengers."
Kelly Ahuja, CEO of Versa, said, "As SITA’s technology partner, we are gratified to be part of delivering this modernized network and security infrastructure using our VersaONE Universal SASE platform. Our innovations have enabled SITA to transform their managed services and be in a leading position to deliver flexibility and agility to their customers."
Related: SITA launches cyber security solution to protect airport and airline networks
SITA Connect Fly builds on the company’s widely used Community Connect DCS service, which supports check-in and boarding control at more than 400 locations worldwide. The updated service delivers cloud-native technology at cost-effective pricing.
AI enabled
The service is built on VersaONE, Versa’s AI-powered platform that combines network performance and security. With global cloud gateways, airlines can connect through the closest access point, improving response times and reducing delays. The platform ensures bandwidth for critical applications, keeping departure control systems running smoothly.
SITA says that with unified networking and security technology, the service also provides flexibility, enabling connectivity from any transport layer, such as ISP, MPLS, or 4G/5G, to any application. This allows airlines to connect from remote airports, including regional sites, and speed operational setup to just a few weeks. The service includes full SASE options, merging cloud-delivered security with SD-WAN performance to support mobile endpoints, non-airport sites, and other travel industry needs.
