Cathay Pacific Airways has become the first airline in the world to install the new global Internet network infrastructure provided by aviation telecommunications company SITA. The new technology allows Cathay Pacific to use SITA`s international Internet network which provides higher speed, greater reliability and an enhanced ability to dial-in from overseas. The new technology will allow Cathay Pacific staff to work more efficiently and improve their level of customer service.

The global Internet infrastructure has already been installed in Cathay Pacific`s headquarters Cathay City, its Sydney data processing centre, and a number of its 110 offices. The airline`s cabin crew and pilots now have high-speed, cost-effective access to information and databases across SITA`s Internet network. Staff also have greater access to business applications in areas such as reservations, sales, and engineering.

“With this new technology we are enabling our staff to do their work far more efficiently and this will enable us to better serve our customers,” said Ian Riddell, Cathay Pacific`s General Manager Information Management. “This new infrastructure provides us with the flexibility and room to grow to ensure we position Cathay Pacific as Asia`s leading e-Business airline. We can now aggressively introduce a range of e-Business initiatives.”

Soon Hock Lim, SITA`s President Asia Pacific, said: “In migrating to this new network, Cathay Pacific have taken a strategic step to enhance their entire global business operations. Being able to employ the latest e-Business applications will improve customer service and streamline communications with their partners and suppliers.”

Cathay Pacific`s introduction of the new “Global Internet” infrastructure came after the airline selected SITA to design and integrate its global information network infrastructure into a single, seamless solution based on the Internet. A joint team from SITA and Cathay Pacific worked together to enable the airline to migrate to the new infrastructure.

SITA and Cathay Pacific have worked together in information technology for almost 40 years. The two companies entered into an exclusive five-year partnership in 1997 which saw 4,000 desktop computers in Cathay Pacific`s headquarters being linked through a high-speed network developed by SITA.

Cathay Pacific is one of Asia`s leading airlines in terms of introducing new technology. It recently launched a new service giving its passengers flight information and the ability to check their frequent miles through their mobile phones using the new WAP technology. It also recently provided real-time flight information through its Internet site.

SITA is one of the world`s leading providers of integrated telecommunications and information solutions to the air transport industry. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, SITA`s customers include airlines, aerospace companies, airfreight firms, airports, and government organisations.

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