The aerospace technology provider is entering the maritime sector with the launch of SmartSea

Air transport industry IT provider SITA has entered the maritime sector through an agreement with Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM) to accelerate digitalization across the value chain.

SmartSea powered by SITA is the first company in the industry to introduce the same advanced technology that has already transformed the air transport industry into the maritime sector. At the same time, CSM becomes the first SmartSea customer to scale its operations thanks to this technology.

SITA believes it can drive digital innovation in the maritime sector by leveraging solutions for the air transport industry, which the company says is 10-15 years ahead in technology adoption.

The similarities between the sectors are many, as ports and ship terminals face the same challenges and opportunities as airports, ships require repairs and maintenance just like airplanes, and both must efficiently manage crew, passengers, baggage and cargo within limited budgets.

“SITA’s launch of SmartSea and our first agreement with CSM represents a strategic step both in terms of SITA’s broader growth strategy and the digitalization of the maritime industry,” said Julian Panter, CEO of SmartSea.

Marinos Yiangou, who has been with CSM for 15 years, will be the company’s chief operating officer, and Drew Griffiths will take over as chief technology officer.

SITA serves 95% of the air travel industry’s international destinations and more than 2,500 airlines, airports, ground handlers and governments, while 85% of all international air passengers worldwide use SITA’s digital border solutions.