Although there is already a desire to use digital identities to streamline travel, the industry must proceed with caution to meet the legal requirements of governments, passengers and airlines. The solution lies in digital travel credentials (DTCs) based on decentralized identity technology and under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standard on this technology.
According to SITA, a technology solutions company for the air transportation industry, proper implementation of digital travel can address major issues in the industry.
It explained that the number of passengers is expected to exceed 19 billion by 2041, forcing airlines and airports to optimize resources. In addition, travelers have growing expectations for seamless digital experiences without long lines at airports. Data privacy and security issues, especially around biometrics, add complexity and costs.
Meanwhile, digital travel credentials using decentralized identity technology offer identity assurance that meets government requirements and enables international border crossings. These credentials allow passengers to retain and control their data in digital wallets and can be quickly integrated into existing airport systems to address industry challenges.
Well-designed credentials also facilitate the integration of new services into the passenger journey, such as hotels, car rentals, trains or cruises. This represents an evolution of digital travel beyond the airport, offering a more complete and efficient experience.
It is important to note that not all DTCs are the same. The real strength of decentralized identity lies in its ability to change the way any type of digital information is created, stored, protected, shared and verified. The ICAO DTC standard, considered the industry’s “gold standard,” is critical to ensuring this digital transformation.
In March 2023, SITA and its strategic partner Indicio successfully deployed the world’s first DTC in Aruba, based on the ICAO standard.
An authentic DTC is a government-grade digital identity, meaning it is derived from an authentic physical passport. It allows governments to pre-approve travel and automate entry using verified biometric data, greatly speeding up the entry process and freeing up resources at borders. Passengers also benefit from pre-clearance, reducing airport wait time and associated anxiety.
An actual DTC allows passengers to retain their passport data on a secure digital credential and share it easily with their consent, eliminating the need for airlines and airports to store and manage personal data in centralized databases. Which is also costly, risky and complicated in terms of data privacy compliance.
With a privacy-preserving digital identity trusted by governments, many current travel issues are solved.
In addition, additional features for passengers can be incorporated, such as car rentals, cabs, hotels, payments and personalization of services through consent. The ICAO DTC represents one of the most important innovations in the travel industry, modernizing the sector and improving the passenger experience.
Source: Arecoa.com