Aviation Industry Doubles Down On Cybersecurity, Sustainability: SITA Report

The aviation industry is working towards a future of safer, smoother, and more sustainable air travel, with airlines and airports increasing investment in cybersecurity, biometrics, and sustainable IT solutions to tackle growing digital threats and rising passenger numbers. 

According to SITA's 2024 Air Transport IT Insights report, 74% of airlines and 72% of airports forecast an increase in overall IT spend over the next two years. Notably, in 2024, the industry's overall IT spend increased and was estimated to reach $37 billion for airlines and almost $9 billion for airports. 

One clear area of focus for the industry is cybersecurity, with 66% of airlines and 73% of airports considering cybersecurity one of their top three areas of focus. This confirms how important it’s becoming to protect critical systems and passenger data as cyber threats get more advanced.

About half of airlines and three-quarters of airports are starting their digital transformation by upgrading IT infrastructure, moving to the cloud, and safeguarding data. Biometrics and AI are enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency.

David Lavorel, CEO of SITA, said, "As cyber threats become more complex, airlines and airports are taking decisive action to protect their operations and passengers. At the same time, biometrics and AI tech are simplifying the travel experience, helping the industry meet growing demand, and build resilience for the future.”

Biometric continues to improve passenger processing. Over half of airports plan to roll out biometrics for check-in and bag drop by 2026, and 70% of airlines expect to adopt biometric ID management systems in the same timeframe. These solutions are expected to speed up passenger processing by up to 30% and reduce wait times by up to 60%. 

Airlines are using generative AI, large language models, and machine learning to improve flight operations, customer service, and fuel efficiency. Airports are focusing on data platforms and predictive analytics to make real-time decisions and manage passenger flow. Around 90% of airlines have already adopted data platforms, and 42% are exploring ways to organise their data for AI projects. 

The industry is pushing towards net-zero emissions by 2050. Three quarters of airlines are using real-time software for flight optimisation, weather risk assessment, and flight operations, and more than half of airlines use real time software to calculate carbon emissions. Around 62% of airlines are also working with sustainable aviation fuel suppliers. 

When it comes to airports, 54% (compared to 29% in 2023) have already implemented energy management systems to track and reduce emissions. Over 80% of airports had planned to implement this tech by 2026 and they’re making steady progress. 

“Sustainability is essential for the future of aviation. It's a responsibility we must embrace to drive lasting change,” said Lavorel. “The adoption of tech like flight optimisation software and SAF systems shows real progress in reducing carbon footprints.”