The aviation sector is undergoing a significant digital transformation, with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) having recently called for more focus on the promotion of digital identity technologies.
At the forefront of this initiative is the call for the adoption of Verifiable Credentials (VC) and Decentralised Identifiers (DIDs) as tools to enhance aviation security and streamline operations. While countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK have embraced the potential of these innovations, the question arises: How likely is Africa to adopt digital identity solutions in the aviation sector, and what challenges do they need to overcome to do so?
The Push for Digital Identity in Aviation
IATA’s recent call for the rapid adoption of digital identity technology reflects a growing consensus among aviation security leaders. At the Sydney Leaders Week Conference, key players in aviation security, including government representatives and industry experts from several countries, discussed the importance of digital identity in improving aviation security and operational efficiency.
Digital identity technologies promise numerous benefits, such as reducing fraud and unauthorised access, enabling cross-border identity verification, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving passenger experience through streamlined document checks. Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety, and Security, emphasized that adopting Verifiable Credentials and Decentralised Identifiers is crucial for reinforcing security and efficiency in global aviation. He further stressed that the technology is ready and proven, making the push for global adoption even more pressing.
But, Can Africa Keep Up With the Rest of the World?
While the benefits of digital identity are evident, the likelihood of widespread uptake in Africa presents a unique set of challenges. Africa’s aviation sector is diverse, with varying levels of infrastructure development, economic challenges, and regulatory environments across different countries. These disparities could affect the speed and scale at which digital identity technologies are integrated into the continent’s aviation systems.
Infrastructure and Technological Barriers
One of the primary challenges Africa faces is the lack of robust digital infrastructure. While major African airports in cities like Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Lagos are making strides toward modernising their facilities, many smaller airports still struggle with outdated systems and limited technological capabilities. The introduction of advanced technologies like digital identity would require significant upgrades to biometric systems, secure networks, and data storage infrastructure. For some countries, this might present a financial hurdle that is difficult to overcome in the short term.
Economic Considerations
The financial implications of implementing digital identity technologies are also a critical concern. Many African countries are grappling with budgetary constraints and competing priorities in sectors like health, education, and infrastructure. The initial costs of setting up secure digital identity systems—ranging from technological investment to training staff and ensuring compliance with international standards—could be seen as too expensive for governments with limited resources. For the initiative to gain traction, the cost-benefit ratio must be carefully considered.
Regulatory and Policy Alignment
Another challenge is the alignment of national regulatory frameworks with international standards, such as those set by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation). The adoption of Verifiable Credentials and Decentralised Identifiers must be supported by clear regulations, both at the national level and in collaboration with global aviation authorities. In Africa, regulatory alignment varies greatly, with some countries having well-established aviation policies, while others are still in the process of developing and implementing digital regulations. Achieving a unified approach to digital identity across the continent may take time.
Awareness and Stakeholder Engagement
Many African governments and aviation stakeholders may not yet fully understand the long-term benefits of digital identity solutions. Raising awareness and fostering collaboration among government agencies, airlines, and technology providers is crucial for driving adoption. However, the fragmented nature of African aviation—where many countries have different stakeholders with competing interests—could slow the pace of collaboration needed to implement digital identity solutions on a continental scale.
IATA’s Role in Facilitating Adoption
Despite these challenges, IATA has been proactive in meeting these challenges head on. Its One ID initiative, which aims to standardise digital identity for air travel, could serve as a model for African countries to adopt. The IATA is paving the way for a seamless passenger experience, enabling biometric recognition instead of traditional travel documents. Additionally, IATA’s focus on developing an Aviation Security Trust Framework can offer African nations a clear roadmap for these solutions into day-to-day processes while maintaining customer privacy and complying with international regulations.
The Future of Digital Identity in Africa’s Aviation Sector
While the uptake of digital identity technologies in Africa’s aviation sector may take time, the potential benefits cannot be ignored. As the continent continues to expand its aviation networks and modernise its airports, the integration of secure, interoperable digital identity systems could play a critical role in ensuring safe, efficient, and seamless air travel in the continent. The key will be addressing the unique challenges facing each unique region and working collaboratively to overcome them. A possible avenue for accelerating adoption is through partnerships with international organisations and private sector players, who could provide the necessary funding, technical expertise, and infrastructure support. But, as they say, only time will tell.
