SITA, a prominent figure in the aviation technology sector, has recently made a significant entrance into the maritime industry through the introduction of SmartSea, in partnership with Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM). This new initiative aims to revolutionize the maritime sector by introducing advanced digital technologies that have already transformed the air transport industry. The partnership with CSM not only signifies a major milestone for SITA but also positions CSM as the pioneering client to adopt this cutting-edge technology.
The SmartSea initiative, powered by SITA, is poised to bring a wave of digital innovation to the maritime industry, leveraging solutions that have propelled the air transport sector to the forefront of technological advancement. SITA is confident that the maritime sector can benefit from the expertise and experience gained from the air transport industry, which is believed to be a decade or more ahead in terms of technology adoption.
The decision to enter the maritime industry is based on the striking similarities between the two sectors. Both ports and airports face analogous challenges and opportunities, and can therefore benefit from similar digital solutions. Vessels, like aircraft, require efficient turnaround and maintenance, and both industries need to manage crew, passengers, baggage, and freight effectively, all while operating within budget constraints.
Julian Panter, CEO of SmartSea, has expressed his enthusiasm about the strategic significance of SITA’s foray into the maritime industry with the launch of SmartSea and the partnership with CSM. This move reflects SITA’s broader growth strategy and is set to play a pivotal role in the digital transformation of the maritime industry.
Key appointments have been made to guide SmartSea towards success, including the appointment of Marinos Yiangou as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Drew Griffiths as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO). With Yiangou’s extensive 15 years of experience at CSM, the company is poised for strong leadership in the maritime sector, while Griffiths brings valuable expertise to the technological aspects of SmartSea.
SITA’s extensive reach in the air travel industry serves as a strong foundation for its venture into the maritime sector. The company currently serves 95% of international destinations in the air travel industry and has partnerships with over 2,500 airlines, airports, ground handlers, and governments worldwide. Furthermore, an impressive 85% of all international air passengers globally benefit from SITA’s digital border solutions.
The collaboration between SITA and CSM through the launch of SmartSea signifies a significant shift in the maritime industry towards embracing digitalization. With SITA’s proven track record in the air transport sector, this new venture is expected to elevate the standards of technological innovation in the maritime industry and streamline processes across the maritime value chain.