With air traffic control (ATC) authorities facing global challenges with messaging systems, could SITA’s ATC Bridge provide a secure, cost-effective way to connect?
The SITA ATC Bridge is described by the company as an “innovative and easy-to-use” SaaS (Software as a Service) cloud-based digital platform.
According to SITA current ATC messaging systems are limited in their capabilities, operationally demanding and slow to adapt to modern needs. The IT specialist’s ATC Bridge introduces a new ATC Message Handling System (AMHS) Gateway that allows the exchange of large messages securely and reliably. This enables aviation stakeholders to replace legacy systems with a secure, seamless and simplified solution designed to maintain operational efficiency.
“Across the industry, air navigation service providers (ANSPs) are being asked to do more with less: handle growing traffic volumes and modernise systems, often with tight budgets,” said Martin Smillie, SVP of Communications and Data Exchange at SITA.
While rigid, complex legacy communication systems make it harder to achieve more with less, Smillie explained that the SITA ATC Bridge changes that. It opens the door to more accessible and resilient connectivity, even for emerging markets.
“By moving to a secure, cloud-based platform, we’re giving aviation authorities the flexibility, speed and resilience they need to collaborate across borders and keep pace with the demands of modern air traffic management,” Smillie continued.
He explained the solution, which is currently awaiting a pending patent, is tailored for rapid deployment, budget-conscious procurement and modern operational needs. As a cloud-based solution, users can access the system remotely from any location. This means aviation authorities can collaborate in real time across borders and departments.
By removing the need for expensive hardware, software licences or ongoing IT maintenance, it also helps lower the cost of ownership.
It is also a secure solution. The platform includes encryption, strict access controls with connection authentication, anti-virus protection and regular audits. Automatic updates keep systems aligned with international aviation standards and ICAO and IATA protocols, giving customers peace of mind that their operations remain compliant. It also provides advanced options such as anti-virus protection and connection authentication.
