The air traffic control (ATC) industry has long faced challenges with outdated messaging systems that are limited, operationally demanding, and slow to adapt to modern needs.
To address these challenges, SITA has launched ATC Bridge, a cloud-based digital platform designed to provide a secure, seamless, and simplified solution for aviation stakeholders.
ATC Bridge is a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform that supports Civil Aviation Authorities, Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs), and regulators who require fast, dependable, and scalable communication across the ICAO ATS Messaging Handling System (AMHS). By reducing the cost and complexity of legacy systems, ATC Bridge opens the door to more accessible and resilient connectivity, even for emerging markets.
According to Martin Smillie, Senior Vice President of Communications and Data Exchange at SITA, “legacy communication systems make it harder for air navigation service providers to handle growing traffic volumes and modernise systems, often with tight budgets. SITA ATC Bridge changes that by moving to a secure, cloud-based platform, giving aviation authorities the flexibility, speed, and resilience they need”.
The ATC Bridge platform is designed to be cost-effective, secure, and fully managed, with features such as encryption, strict access controls, anti-virus protection, and regular audits. The solution also provides automatic updates to keep systems aligned with international aviation standards and ICAO and IATA protocols.
With ATC Bridge, aviation stakeholders can now collaborate in real-time across borders and departments, making them more responsive and efficient. The platform’s flexible subscription-based pricing model scales with customers’ needs, removing the need for expensive hardware, software licenses, or ongoing IT maintenance.
The launch of ATC Bridge marks a significant step forward in modernising global air traffic communication, providing a scalable, affordable, and resilient solution that strengthens stability across global air traffic operations.