Global aviation IT and technology solutions group SITA and Ethiopian Airlines have signed a memorandum of understanding, under which they will jointly develop innovative solutions which will reinforce the carrier’s operations and further improve the experiences of its passengers. The partnership will also embrace industry partners, technology providers, business accelerators and startups.

“Africa is experiencing unprecedented growth in air travel just as passengers’ expectations are being reshaped by rapid advances in digital technology,” highlighted SITA president: Middle East and Africa Selim Bouri. “Hubs like Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport need to provide a frictionless passenger journey so airlines can optimise flight schedules and deliver smooth, memorable trips. This collaboration between Ethiopian Airlines and SITA is all about driving the innovation needed to meet these demands and help shape the future of aviation.”

“Ethiopia is realising its ambition to become a sophisticated, dynamic destination for investment, trade and tourism,” pointed out Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew. “Ethiopian Airlines plays a central role in making that vision a reality. Creating the best first and last impressions for business and leisure travellers is crucial, and this partnership puts us in the best position to deliver exceptional experiences while taking full advantage of the opportunities ahead.”

The partnership comes against a backdrop of African airlines coming under increasing pressure to provide more efficient journeys while having to manage greater numbers of operations. National flag carriers, like Ethiopian, are under particular pressure to make favourable and lasting impressions on their passengers. The SITA-Ethiopian Airlines collaboration will start by identifying the crucial challenges facing the carrier, and then develop new, forward-oriented solutions for them.

SITA has some 2 500 customers, including more than 70 governments. Its technology assists more than 1 000 airports and more than 19 600 aircraft, around the world. SITA also bridges 45% to 50% of the global air transport industry’s data exchange. Ethiopian Airlines is the leading aviation group in Africa, with a fleet of more than 150 aircraft, with an average aircraft age of less than seven years, and it also has more than 100 aircraft on order. It serves 142 international passenger and cargo destinations, including 70 in Africa.