SITA’s latest Air Transport IT Insights report reveals growing focus on cybersecurity, biometrics, and sustainability to future-proof air travel / SITA's 2024 Air Transport IT Insights report, published today, reveals how airlines and airports are increasing investment in cybersecurity, biometrics, and sustainable IT solutions. This is how they plan to cope with growing digital threats and rising passenger numbers. 74% of airlines and 72% of airports forecast an increase in overall IT spend over the next two years. These investments show how the aviation industry is working toward a future of safer, smoother, and more sustainable air travel. In 2024, the industry's overall IT spend increased and was estimated to reach $37bn for airlines, and almost $9bn for airports. One clear area of focus for the industry is cybersecurity. The report reveals that 66% of airlines and 73% of airports mention it as 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. Meanwhile, biometrics and AI are enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency making it the natural next step. (....)