Source: ICAO
How will the global travel system develop the capacity at airports and borders to safely and comfortably accommodate the three-fold increase in passenger volumes over the coming quarter century? No fewer than 12.4 billion passengers are expected to fly in 2050. Focused on building trust in travel documents, advancing digital transformation, and developing future borders using technology and cooperation, the 20th ICAO TRIP Symposium (TRIP 2025) gave the Organization an exceptional opportunity to lead the way forward.
With ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano and Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar having successfully set the stage for constructive deliberation, discussions at TRIP 2025 revealed how secure travel depends on strong civil registries, reliable enrolment, and document issuance. The importance of global standards and interoperability was emphasized, with digital technologies opening new possibilities for identity management. Policy alignment and collaboration between governments, organizations, and industry were central themes in shaping future border processes.
The three-day event drew strength from the range and number of participants. Taking place at ICAO’s Montreal Headquarters, the Symposium brought together over 600 attendees, including over 300 representatives from 69 state delegations. Six international organizations brought a wide mix of technical and policy insight, while no fewer than 33 speakers and moderators helped guide discussions and share expertise from across the travel and identity management ecosystem. Additionally, over 160 sponsors and exhibitors showcased their innovative technologies in digital identities, automated border controls, and biometrics.
The Symposium has provided significant support to the implementation of both ICAO’s Traveller Identity Programme (TRIP) Strategy and the related Resolutions adopted by the 42nd session of the ICAO Assembly earlier last month. It was a prime example of how ICAO is driving progress towards its strategic vision for 2050, which foresees air transport for all, along with zero fatalities and net zero carbon emissions.