SITA Introduces SmartSea, Ushering in a New Era of Maritime Digitalization
SITA, a global leader in air transport technology, has taken a bold step into the maritime industry with the launch of SmartSea. This groundbreaking platform aims to revolutionize maritime operations by providing access to advanced technologies that have already transformed the aviation sector. Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM), a premier ship manager and maritime service provider, has become SmartSea’s inaugural client, leveraging this innovative technology to significantly enhance its operations.
With 75 years of expertise, SITA has a proven track record of serving 95% of international air travel destinations. Its collaboration with over 2,500 airlines, airports, ground handlers, and governments has established SITA as a trusted partner, utilized by 85% of international air passengers through its digital border solutions. The company’s pivotal role in transforming the air industry underscores the immense value it can bring to the maritime sector.
SmartSea: A Comprehensive Hub for Maritime Technology
SmartSea is poised to become the foremost leader in maritime technology solutions. It aims to create a comprehensive hub for advanced technologies, drawing inspiration from the trusted solutions that have revolutionized the global air travel industry. By adopting these proven solutions, SmartSea will drive digital innovation in the maritime sector, which faces similar challenges to the aviation industry.
Cross-Industry Synergies and International Reach
SITA’s foray into the maritime domain underscores its ambition and capability to drive digital innovation in a sector that faces similar challenges to the aviation industry. Both sectors operate in a complex, highly regulated global ecosystem, are capital intensive, and depend heavily on data and communication, while also sharing similar sustainability goals. Additionally, ports and ship terminals confront similar challenges and opportunities as airports; ships, like aircraft, require maintenance and efficient management of crew, passengers, baggage, and freight within tight budgets.
“SITA is taking a bold step into the maritime sector, where our longstanding leadership in aviation can serve to overcome economic and capacity challenges, enhance security and unlock new revenue streams for companies across the industry,” said David Lavorel, SITA CEO.
Collaboration with Industry Leaders
By leveraging valuable cross-industry synergies and its international reach, SITA is collaborating with companies such as Columbia Shipmanagement to elevate their operations to the next level. This strategic partnership demonstrates SITA’s ability to revolutionize end-to-end travel, regardless of the mode of transport.
Julian Panter, SmartSea CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “SITA’s launch of SmartSea and our first agreement with CSM mark a strategic turning point for both SITA and the digitalization of the maritime industry.”
Mark O’Neil, Columbia Group CEO, highlighted the transformative potential of SmartSea, saying, “I am thrilled to be working with SmartSea as it brings its extensive experience and innovative aviation technology to the maritime industry.”
Unlocking Efficiency, Safety, and Sustainability
SITA recognizes the opportunity to deploy technologies that have already enhanced the experiences of airlines, airports, and governments, ensuring smooth travel for passengers worldwide and boosting operational efficiency. Leveraging the evolutionary progress of aviation, SmartSea will capitalize on SITA’s knowledge and CSM’s industry dominance to foster innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in maritime operations.
