At Neoke, we’re proud to support the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in their groundbreaking efforts to transform aviation through digital identity. Real progress in the industry requires collaboration, and we are honoured to partner with IATA and some of the world’s most celebrated airlines to deliver tangible change.
From Theory to Reality: Seamless Digital Air Travel
Earlier this year, Neoke participated in an exciting proof of concept (POC) with Hong Kong and Narita airports, showcasing the potential of digital identity in air travel. Two passengers used a digital wallet, e-passport copies, and company digital ID to book flights, apply for visas, check in, and navigate the airport process for a round trip between Hong Kong and Tokyo on a Cathay Pacific flight.
This successful POC demonstrated that a seamless, fully digital travel experience powered by digital identity and biometrics is no longer just a concept—it’s a proven reality. A full rundown was provided at the IATA global media day last week, watch it here.
PoC Outcomes
- Confirmed the importance of the standards for interoperability
With many different stakeholders participating, interoperability is key to success. Some adjustments may be needed to current standards, and additional standards may need to be introduced. - Confirmed improved customer experience.
Sharing information with the click of a button, without preparing any documents is indeed possible, and offers a significantly enhanced customer journey. - Confirmed the compatibility with the existing biometric systems
Digital ID credentials can be used for current biometric processes across different airports. - Discovered potential challenges and opportunities
Early engagement with governments is essential.
As Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety, and Security, remarked: “The challenge now is to make this more efficient travel experience available to all travellers.”
Tackling Complexity in Aviation
With regulatory frameworks becoming increasingly complex, the ability to quickly and accurately prepare or validate documentation that meets local and global standards is vital for the aviation industry. Within the next two years, over 500 million people are expected to use some form of digital ID, with biometric processing standards already being piloted.
Neoke is committed to advancing this transformation through strategic partnerships and innovative POCs.
Innovative Use Cases Driving Impact
As the team at IATA shared last week there are more exciting developments underway.
Use Case 1: Frequent Traveller Tier Verification
Neoke is part of IATA’s collaborating with industry leaders and airlines to enhance loyalty programs by enabling cross-airline recognition for frequent travellers. In a recent POC, a passenger used an airline-issued verifiable credential to access airport lounges and onboard Wi-Fi seamlessly.
This use case has the potential to revolutionise loyalty programs, deepen customer engagement, and unlock the long-tail potential of frequent travellers, creating significant value for airlines and other travel providers.
Use Case 2: Agency Employee Verification
Digital ID isn’t just about customer-facing applications—it also delivers immense value in B2B interactions. Airlines are piloting and standardising frameworks for verifying travel agency employees using digital ID.
This POC involves issuing digital proofs of employment to agency staff for secure access to airline portals and online booking tools. By simplifying identity management and safeguarding against impersonation fraud, this solution ensures secure, efficient interactions between airlines and travel agencies.
Looking Ahead
At Neoke, we remain dedicated to shaping the future of aviation through collaboration, innovation, and trust. We’re excited to continue building on these successes and actively contributing to further POCs. The insights and advancements will be shared at IATA’s World Data Symposium in Dublin in February 2025.
