SITA acquires CCM to bring airports of the future to life

Passenger processing tech leaders will create smarter, more flexible terminals

SITA, the global leader in air transport technology, has formally acquired CMM, a world-renowned expert and leader in the design, production, and creation of airport interiors.

This strategic move aims to redefine how airports function by seamlessly blending technology and interior design to create future-ready spaces.

SITA recognised that as airports invest in automation, biometrics, security, self-service and personalised commercial services, terminal layouts must evolve too.

The traditional model involving rows of check-in counters, static security areas, and inefficient passenger flows no longer makes sense. Instead, airports need seamless integration, where smart technology and intelligent design work together to reduce congestion and make the most out of every square meter. 

CCM, which is headquartered in Milan, Italy, is synonymous with world-famous high-quality Italian design in the airport space. It works with leading architects and designers to create efficient, functional, memorable, and stylish traveller experiences.  

“This isn’t just about expanding airports,” said David Lavorel, CEO at SITA. “It’s about reimagining them. 

“With CCM’s deep design and execution expertise, we’re transforming airports to maximize their existing footprint, optimize passenger flow, and create smarter, more flexible and valuable airport terminal environments that evolve with the changing needs of the industry.”

As the leader in passenger processing technology, SITA is at the forefront of managing airport space more efficiently. The industry’s transformation demands a new approach to space management, where traditional check-in counters are replaced with innovative designs that reflect modern travel habits. 

“Building efficient, tech-enabled environments is crucial for the future of travel. Airports are not just transit points; they mark a moment in a journey, no matter the destination. 

“By integrating our expertise, we bring to life the airports of the future - architecture that is built on tech solutions and driven by efficiency to improve the overall travel experience for passengers and the operations of airport staff,” added Mr Lavorel.

The acquisition of CCM adds valuable design and customer advisory elements to SITA’s existing technology, reinforcing its commitment to leading the future of air travel. 

Sergio Colella, President, Europe at SITA, added: “The market needs a fundamental shift - where technology and design work together to make airports smarter in using their space for more capacity and with flexibility to support the next generation of travel. That’s why we’re bringing CCM into the SITA family. 

“By combining our technology and experience in airport operations with their deep understanding of design and space optimization, we are bringing to the market a unique ‘technology by design’ capability and end-to-end integration from design to operations, all in harmony since the conception of the idea.”

According to the SITA 2024 Air Transport IT Insights report, 63% of airports are prioritising self-service, biometrics, mobile apps, and IT spending has surged to $8.9 billion as airports focus on automation, AI, and digitalisation. 

But these investments will only deliver their full impact if airports are physically designed to support them. Technology alone won’t fix congestion. It needs smarter layouts, frictionless movement, and an infrastructure that evolves with it. 

SITA and CCM are moving fast to integrate their expertise, ensuring that existing customers experience no disruption in service, while opening new opportunities to optimize their airport environments. 

The aviation industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and airports need solutions that don’t just help them catch up but allow them to get ahead.