A significant transformation is underway in international air travel, and South Africa is well-positioned to be part of the shift.
The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the UN agency responsible for global aviation standards, is advancing the implementation of a Digital Travel Credential (DTC)—a development that could eventually phase out physical passports and boarding passes in favour of smartphone-based identification.
The DTC comprises two integrated components: a digitally signed virtual credential linked to the traveller’s passport data (DTC-VC) and a physical carrier, typically a smartphone application (DTC-PC), which stores and presents the credential during travel. Together, these ensure secure, tamper-resistant verification of identity at every stage of the journey.
ICAO states that the DTC aims to reduce identity fraud and eliminate delays at border controls, using facial recognition to verify passengers without repeated document checks. However, physical passports will continue to be required for the foreseeable future due to current legal and infrastructural constraints.
Also read: South Africa and Kenya Lead Africa in Sustainable Finance
Andy Smith, Director of Industry and Innovation at the Société Internationale de Télécommunications Aéronautiques (SITA), emphasises that this is a natural evolution of existing digital systems such as eVisas and ETAs. He noted that digital identity verification allows passengers to confirm their travel readiness from home, easing pressure on airport facilities.
Smith also highlighted that the DTC aligns with global security standards and public key infrastructure protocols, enabling international authentication of digital credentials. While adoption will remain voluntary, Smith acknowledged the need to accommodate travellers without digital access or those preferring traditional documentation.
The DTC initiative reflects a growing emphasis on efficiency, privacy, and passenger control in air travel. As digital identity solutions mature, countries like South Africa could benefit from faster processing, enhanced security, and a more seamless travel experience across global aviation networks.
