Angola has taken a proactive approach with the deployment of SITA’s Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record Gateway (API PNR Gateway) at Dr António Agostinho Neto International Airport. The new system is supported by SITA’s Passenger Information Unit (PIU) consultancy services.
As aviation’s tech engine, SITA aims to make travel safer, easier, and more sustainable. SITA has around 2 500 customers and its technology supports over 1 000 airports and more than 19 600 aircraft worldwide. SITA also helps over 70 governments strike the balance between secure borders and seamless journeys. Behind the scenes, SITA bridges 45 to 50% of the industry’s data exchange, enabling a highly complex global network.
Meanwhile, Angola has introduced the new digital system as border authorities worldwide are under growing pressure to manage rising passenger numbers while strengthening security. The new system is expected to strengthen Angola’s operational and data-governance frameworks, ensuring these systems deliver long-term value. The initiative is complemented by a new Passenger Information Monitoring and Management center in Luanda, creating a foundation for faster decision-making and improved security outcomes.
The new system allows airlines to send two types of passenger data to authorities before departure: Advance Passenger Information (API), which includes passport and identity details, and Passenger Name Record (PNR), which contains the passenger’s itinerary and booking information. Bringing this information together in one place gives authorities an earlier and more accurate view of who is travelling to the country and, with SITA’s guidance, helps establish the processes and analytical frameworks needed to turn this data into faster and more informed decision making.
By combining API and PNR data, the system helps Angola’s National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) identify irregularities, detect suspicious travel patterns, and prevent unauthorised travelers from boarding flights bound for Angola. It also supports compliance with international requirements set by the United Nations Security Council, the International Civil Aviation Organisation, and the European Union.
The state secretary for civil aviation, maritime and port sectors, Rui Carreira, stated that “the inauguration of the National Command and Control Center marks a historic moment for Angola. This strategic investment strengthens the security of our borders and consolidates the country’s position as a modern and competitive international transport hub.”
ANAC president Amélia Kuvíngua added that “The system allows us to act preventively and in a coordinated manner, manage migratory flows more effectively, and strengthen our preparedness against transnational crime. With SITA’s specialised support, Angola now has robust capabilities to operate these systems with confidence and efficiency.”
“Governments across Africa are accelerating digitalisation to keep pace with rising travel demand, and Angola is taking clear steps in leading the way,” said Pedro Alves, SVP of Borders at SITA.
“Angola is showing how border authorities can lead the way into a more digital and connected future. When countries combine Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record capabilities with a national Passenger Information Monitoring and Management center, they create an operational model that others in the industry can learn from. It reduces risks for airlines and authorities, improves predictability at the border, and supports the kind of seamless experience passengers now expect. This is the direction the global travel industry is moving toward, and Angola is putting the right digital foundations in place to be part of that future.” He added. – newsroom@nepc.com.na