CSBU1. Certification Program – Level 1
Self-Training Material for Module 6
Communication Services Business Unit (CSBU)
ATI Messaging Solutions Line
Products
September 2009
2. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 2 ©SITA
Portfolio Hierarchy
Type-B and EDI Standards
Applications
Application Interfaces
EDI Standard Converters
Gateways
Transport Methods
Service Platforms
Service Strategy
Development Plan
Sales Strategy
ATI Messaging Products – Table of Contents
3. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 3 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Portfolio Hierarchy -
Operational Messaging Introduction
Type B is used by virtually all SITA customers. It supports
message based communications between all our Type B
customers.
Type B supports the daily use of reservation systems,
inventory systems, cargo systems distribution of flight plans to
Air Navigation Service providers, sending of Advance
Passenger Information to national border control agencies etc.
The complexity of airline operations coupled with increased
customer expectations has made development and
implementation of reliable IT, communication with partners
critical to the mission of most ATI companies.
4. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 4 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Portfolio Hierarchy - Operational
Messaging
Type-B and EDI
Standards
Gateways
Service
Platform
Transport
Application
Interface
EDI Standards
Conversion
Application
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform
& Text
SPEC
2000
XML (ATA)
SMTP
EDI
Clearing
House
SMS
SPEC
Conversion
Service
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
SDK +
SITATEX
MQ–Type B
MATIP-Type B
Private
IPVPN
Internet
Mega-Switch
ATL & SIN
Type B over
X.25
AX.25 Asynch
P1X24
EXISTS, BUT AT END OF LIFE
SITATEX
Servers
ATL & SIN
Customer’s
own interface
Cargo
Community
Service
SITATEX Skyform
Web
Type B
Web
2000
NTS
AFTN & Telex
Server
PPP X.28
DIAL
Type B
SDK
Type-X
5. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 5 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Type-B and EDI Standards
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) covers the exchange of electronic documents of
an operational or commercial nature between computer applications.
The applications can be operated by the same or by different companies.
The term EDI specifically covers the rigorously standardized structure, format and
coding of content of these electronic documents. Without this the applications would
not be able to process the exchanged transactions correctly.
Its related domains are:
– Coding applications for writing/reading exchanged documents
– Addressing
– Transmission, often using a third party service to serve the many-to-many
environment
– Underlying commercial agreements
Type B may be seen as an EDI system.
– Standards are defined by the industry, and managed by IATA (e.g AirIMP)
– Message writing/reading is done by the relevant ATI application
– Addressing conforms to the Type B addressing scheme (e.g LHRRVXS)
– Transmission is via the SITA Mega Switches in Atlanta and Singapore
– Many commercial agreements are in place
The ATI’s evolution means that SITA offers support for a range of different EDI standards
(IATA standards, other ATI standards and national and international standards.)
6. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 6 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standards: AIRIMP
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
ATA/IATA Reservations Interline Message Procedures - Passenger (AIRIMP)
The sole reference source for the communications standards for the handling
of Passenger Reservations Interline Messages.
The AIRIMP standards are used in transactions between Travel Agency and
Airline/GDS systems and by Airline to Airline systems.
Airline Res to GDS, websites and other airlines – eg AVS Airline
output to update the Availability Status of their inventory
Airline Inventory System DCS – eg PNL Passenger Name List
DCS to Border Authority – eg UNA Advanced Passenger
Information
IATA Reservations Committee (RESCOM)
Responsible for the development of transmission of reservations services
for use by customers and agents.
PADIS: Passenger and Airport Data Interchange Standards.
Functional business requirements for application level messages based
on UN/EDIFACT inter-active transaction standards.
This is not related to Type B Messaging.
68% of messages have a message type indicator (SMI) that is defined in the
IATA standard
32% of the messages are developed between partners, and have grown to
9000 additional (non)standard message indicators.
7. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 7 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Example: MVT – Movement
Message
The exact operation of the schedule is reported via Movement Messages
They are reported to the next station down the route (“down line”)
AD - actual departure of aircraft
AA - actual arrival of an aircraft
ED - Estimated departure of an aircraft
NI - Next info (update)
RR - return to ramp of an aircraft (with implies problem and further delay)
Simultaneously related messages may be sent:
Passenger Transfer Message (PTM)
Passenger Services can re-book those who will miss connections
Statistical Load Summary (SLS) to Accounting.
MVT
Service Information (in freeform). This message gives the reason for the delay
AY1234/21.OHABC.CPH AD0651/0713EA0800AAL DL84/0006 ALT EKAH END 0221
POB94SI DUE TO LATE ARRIVAL OF A/C
The alternate airfield (in case unable to land at destination) is Århus
, endurance of aircraft is 2hrs 21mins There are 94 persons on board POB94
Movement message
AY Finnair, flight number 1234, on the 21'st. A/C registration OHABC, departing from
Copenhagen
Actual departure at 0651z from gate/airborne time 0713z, estimated arrival 0800
Delay code is 84 (84= Weather at destination) and the delay is 06 minutes
8. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 8 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standard: CargoIMP
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
Jointly developed by IATA, its member airlines and the ATA.
Cargo Interchange Message Procedures define:
– Space allocation
– Air waybill (AWB)
– Flight manifest
– Accounting
– Status
– Discrepancy
– Embargo
– Customs
– Cargo Account Settlement System (CASS) billing
– Dangerous goods
– Surface transportation
9. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 9 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products- EDI Standard: Freeform
Freeform:
– Uses standard as well as
non standard format
– Written directly by a person
–Generated from a mailbox
– e.g.
SITATEX
Web Type B
SMTP mailbox mapped to a
Type B address
– Can be completely
freeform or a combination
of required fields and free
text
Movement example:
MVT
ABC1234/21.OYABC.CPH
AD0651/0713 EA0800 AAL
DL84/0006
ALT EKAH END 0221
POB94
SI DUE TO LATE ARRIVAL OF
A/C
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
Free form
10. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 10 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standard: SPEC2000
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
ATA proprietary standard, used in international Aerospace/MRO community
It provides “The SPEC2000 e-business system”.
– ATA Aviation Marketplace
Procurement Database
Repair Database
Surplus Database
Tools, Test and Ground Equipment Database
Needs Database
– E-Commerce Standards
Order Administration and Invoicing
Repair Order Administration
Warranty Claims Placement
XML Representations
– File Standards
Provisioning
Inventory Consumption Data Exchange
Performance Reporting
Delivery Configuration
Reliability Data Collection/Exchange
– Bar Coding Standards
Previously ATA specified the standard including the entire protocol stack. Today
however, they specify only the data formats – using the XML format standard
It is now up to the individual user to decide how to send the messages
11. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 11 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standard: ACARS
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
From A/C
OUT
Link Test
Clock Update
Delay Reports
To A/C
PDC, and ATIS
Load Sheet
Weight and Balance
Airport Analysis
V-Speeds
Flight-Plan, Loaf FMC
From A/C
OFF
From A/C
Engine Data
To A/C
Flight Plan Update
Weather Reports
From A/C
Position Reports
Weather Reports
Delay Info/ETA
Voice Request
Engine Information
Maintenance Reports
To A/C
ATC Oceanic
Clearance
Weather Reports
Reclearance
Ground Voice Request
From A/C
Provisioning
Gate Requests
ETA
Special Requests
Engine Information
Maintenance Reports
From A/C
ON
To A/C
Gate Assignment
Connecting Gates
Passengers and Crew
ATIS
From A/C
IN
Fuel Information
Crew Information
Fault Data from CMC
Taxi Take-Off Departure En Route Approach Land Taxi
The ACARS standard supports message transfer between airborne users and
ground users via air-ground links.
The format and protocol for the air-ground link is specified in AEEC 618
specification.
The format for the ground-ground link is specified in AEEC 620 specification.
The DataLink Service Provider (such as SITA) does the conversion between the
above two formats.
Air-Ground messages are used by Air Traffic Control and Airline Operations during
all flight phases.
ACARS = Aircraft Communication Addressing and Reporting System
12. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 12 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standard: XML
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
IATA Passenger Services Conference has established an XML Work Group
with the following Terms of Reference:
– To identify and develop business requirements for airline internet data
interchange applications based on current airline practices and
procedures;
– To develop airline internet data interchange message specifications to
meet the defined business requirements;
– To develop implementation guidelines for the airline internet message
specifications;
– To propose/submit additions, changes and deletions to the IATA airline
internet data dictionary;
– To liaise within IATA and with other internet data standards development
organisations;
– To submit the data interchange standards to ECDG* for endorsement;
– To submit the data interchange standards to PADIS Board for
endorsement;
In Q2/09 the group is due to publish:
– Type X Specification
– Type X Data Dictionary
– Type X Implementation Guidelines
– Type X – Type B conversion.
*Electronic Commerce Distribution Group
13. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 13 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standard: XML(ATA)
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
Codification of SPEC 2000 Commands into XML began in June 2000
Type B based SPEC 2000 Commands were easily converted to XML
since SPEC Text Element Identifiers (TEI) could become XML Data Tag
Descriptors (DTD) The TEI was logically consistent with DTD definition
The following SPEC 2000 Chapters have been published in XML
– Chapter 2 Procurement Planning
– Chapter 3 Order Administration
– Chapter 4 Invoicing
– Chapter 11 Reliability Data Exchange
– Chapter 16 Electronic Product and Part Regulatory Documentation
In 2006 use of DTD was replaced by WSC3 XML schema
representations
SPEC 2000 XML is now aligned with leading information exchange
framework standards that support schemas including:
– Web Services Description Language (WSDL)
– Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP)
– Business Process Execution Language (BPEL)
14. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 14 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standard: ANSI ASC
X.12
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
ANSI ASC X.12 is the official designation of the U.S. national standards body for
the development and maintenance of EDI standards.
It stands for "American National Standards Institute Accredited Standards
Committee X12",
ANSI ASC X.12:
– Was founded in 1979
– Is focused on health care, insurance, government, transportation, finance.
– Has sponsored more than 315 X12-based EDI standards (all industries)
– Is developing X.12 XML messages
– Has a membership of 3,000+ standards experts, representing over 350
companies.
– SITA became involved in the 1990’s, while developing its EDI Clearing
House for the exchange of business documents between airlines and their
suppliers.
The issue was that NAM airlines wished to remain on the standard that they were
using for general domestic supply.
The main use of X.12 in SITA is in the SPEC2000-X12 Conversion Service.
15. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 15 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standard: EDIFACT
ANSI X.12
CargoIMP
AIRIMP EDIFACT
ACARS XML
Freeform SPEC 2000 XML (ATA)
United Nations/Electronic Data Interchange For Administration,
Commerce, and Transport (UN/EDIFACT) is the international EDI
standards developed under an United Nations initiative.
– It is the dominant standard outside NAM
– Airlines exchange a large volume of Inter-active EDIFACT over direct links
– EDIFACT is emerging as the standard for APIS (Advanced Passenger
Information)
The EDIFACT standard provides
– A set of syntax rules to structure data,
– An interactive exchange protocol (I-EDI),
– Standard messages which allow multi-country and multi-industry exchange.
There is tension between XML and EDIFACT.
– An equivalent XML message has a larger file size than an EDIFACT message
(Ratio of up to 10:1)
– More tools exist to work with XML data than with EDIFACT.
– An advantage of EDIFACT is the availability of agreed message-contents, which
XML must leverage to develop its own similar agreed contents.
– Europe has a large EDIFACT installed base because it adopted the technology
early.
– The Asian region adopted B2B models and is moving to XML standards.
16. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 16 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products –
Applications
Written and owned by SITA.
May be seen as GUIs
Generate and receive Type B
messages:
– Person-to-person
– Application-to-person
All are positioned to support
airline operations.
Skyform:
– PC Program (developed from
SITATEX) to manage MRO
Supply Chain (Spares, Repairs,
Warranty) using SPEC2000
Web 2000
– Web Type B supporting a sub
set of SkyForm functionality.
SITATEX Skyform
Web
Type B
Web
2000
SITATEX:
– A PC based email GUI to
manage Type B based e-mail
SITATEX V6
SITATEX V7
Web Type B:
– Browser based mail service for
access to SITATEX
Service Charges
– Software license and
maintenance fee.
– Mailbox/software charges
– Type B Service Charges
– Network Access Charges
Only for SITATEX V6 and below
17. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 17 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Applications -
Positioning Strategy
SMTP Mailbox*
Interpersonal
Low traffic volumes
Price
Features
Volume
~$10
~45$
~$100
Web Type B
Interpersonal
Low traffic volumes
SITATEX
Interpersonal
Low to Med traffic
* SMTP Mailbox is also known as MessagingConnect Mailbox
18. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 18 ©SITA
SITATEX - A PC based email GUI to manage Type B based e-mail
Single and multi-user configuration options are available.
Communications via
– SITATEX V7: The Internet, IP networks and dial connections
– SITATEX V6: IP networks and dial connections.
– Legacy connections options are in service (but close to end of life).
Target Market
– Airlines, ground handlers, GDS, airfreight and aerospace companies
– Communication between operational staff and application outputs.
Key Selling Points
– Simple-to-use GUI designed for air transport industry operational
environments
– It’s what the industry has used for years, i.e. upgrades do not create need for
retraining remote staff
– Increased geographic network reach based on IP and Internet options.
– Cost effective client-based messaging solution with flexible network access
options.
– Secure transmission of mission-critical messages and documents in Type B
format.
ATI MESSAG Prod - SITATEX SITATEX
Web
Type B
Skyform
Web
2000
19. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 19 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products -
SITATEX V7
SITATEX
Web
Type B
Skyform
Web
2000
Latest release of the SITATEX application
– PC based graphical interface (GUI) application used to send Type B messages
– Single and multi user configuration options
– Ideal for roaming users and small offices
– Recommended for users demanding to move solutions to TCP/IP in all locations
Network Interface Access Options
– Public Internet Access with SSL PKI
– IP & Dial Services (X.28 & PPP)
Target Market
– Single user with Internet network access.
– SITATEX installed based.
Target Customers
– New connections
– 48% installed base of legacy.
Positioning Benefit
– Communication cost reduction
– using Internet for access.
SITATEX V7 is the current PC based GUI for Type B messages
20. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 20 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products
- SITATEX STATUS
2008 Annual Billed Revenue = $18m
New Sales Growth (1-2% p.a) is mostly for Internet
Faithful “Cash Cow” product with a very good margin
User base:
– SITATEX Connections around 13,500
– Installed stations around 27,000 users – includes
everything; test, back up etc.
– 56% is Airlines
SITATEX
Web
Type B
Skyform
Web
2000
21. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 21 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products -
Web-Type B
SITATEX
Web
Type B
Skyform
Web
2000
Web Type B uses a Microsoft Explorer browser to interface with Type B.
Two Internet Access Methods:
– IP options (PPP dial, IP VPN, ServiceNet or LAN access)
– Internet (using SSL PKI digital certification.)
Web Type B provides:
– Simple solution that can be available very quickly – with no software installation
– ASP solution relieving the customer from maintaining a purpose built software
installation
– Reliability, with assured delivery of messages
– Security.
Positioning:
– The fast path to simple airline industry messaging
– Bring low effort/efficiency to customer business operations
– Reduce communications and license cost.
Target Customers
– New and existing low end users of Type B
– Those with only a limited requirement for Spec2000.
Key Selling Points
– Simple to use, cost effective service that provides access to Type B messages
anywhere, anytime
– Secure Internet or Intranet connection
– Minimal investment for installation and administration.
22. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 22 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products -
Skyform
Skyform – PC GUI and MRO supply chain application (for a single user)
SkyHost is the multi user LAN software version
Status:
– 2008 revenue = $100,000 revenue
– 300 licensed customers
– Boeing receives a third of its aftermarket PO’s with SPEC(2000) – these are the
more valuable orders
– Airbus support customers who use SPEC2000
– ~ 80% of OEM aftermarket transactions are via SPEC 2000
Functions are to manage SPEC2000 MRO supply chain messages:
– Spares Message Set
– Repairs Message Set
– Warranty Message Set
– ATA Surplus Database
Features:
– Assists in filling in the data fields of SPEC2000 forms.
– Archive of buying and selling activities
– Validates mandatory and conditional fields
– Provides automatic acknowledgments.
Communication is over the SITATEX V6 IP platform.
SITATEX
Web
Type B
Skyform
Web
2000
23. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 23 ©SITA
A SkyForm screen for Purchase Order entry compared to the manual alternative
CAM
S1TOADDR/JOHN SMITH
S1BOOKED/27126/56786/USD/1/QTL 1/EVT 43.20/443/2077291/D3849675-1/1/EA/48.00/25113/
SSM SSC/SHT A/QTN 004057999000345/
LSE Y/PDP 10.00/
REM PLEASE FOR THIS PURCHASE ORDER
REM SEND THE INVOICE TO TOQPHIE
SITATEX
Web
Type B
Skyform
Web
2000
ATI Messaging Products - Skyform
24. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 24 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Web 2000
A SPEC2000 web portal that provides a subset of Skyform and SkyHost
functions.
It is the SPEC2000 equivalent of Web Type B.
Functions:
– Supports the 10+ most common messages in SPEC2000
S1BOOKED, S1CMDACK, S1INVEXC, S1NVOICE, S1ORDEXC
S1QUOTEI, S1QUOTES, S1REJECT, S1STOCKS, S1SHIPPD
– All other functionality is delivered by the Web Type B components.
Targets:
– The smaller suppliers in the MRO sector
– Regional/remote offices of airlines and OEMs.
Access:
– Via the Intranet using SITA IPVPN or LAN access connections
– Via Internet using a PKI digital certificate on the client PC or laptop.
Benefits to customers:
– Provides lower-cost SPEC2000 capability
– No software to install, no updates, no maintenance
– Secure and confidential – keeps the prices/data/orders private.
SITATEX
Web
Type B
Skyform
Web
2000
25. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 25 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Positioning SPEC2000
Solutions
SkyHost
LAN/Multi-user software
Medium-to-higher
volume customers
EDI Clearinghouse
(ECH) with
X12-SPEC2000
Conversion Service
Low-to-high
volume customers*
SPEC2000 via
WebType B
(Internet or Intranet)
Low-to-medium
volume customers
SkyForm
Single-user software
Low-to-medium+
volume customers
Volume
Functionality
*Customer has existing
EDI infrastructure
26. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 26 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products –
Application Interface: MATIP-Type B
MATIP standard
Mapping of Airlines Traffic over IP
MATIP transports legacy airline
protocols traffic (transactional and
messaging) over IP
An Industry standard developed by:
– Airlines and GDS
– Cisco, IBM, Unisys and SITA
Endorsed by IETF: RFC-2351
Available from IBM and Unisys
A traditional implementation provides a
purpose built front-end , and no other
functions
Designed to support high speed
processing & communications.
SITA MATIP-Type B Service
Supported by the SITA switches
Requires MATIP implementation in
customers mainframe or server
Secure, high speed IP access via:
– IPVPN
– SITA’s IP-based network services;
IPVPN & ATeX
High performance direct access to the
Mega Switch
No Internet access.
Benefits for the customer:
Migration from the legacy network
connections with no change required a
the application level
Maintenance cost reduction in
mainframes and front end processing
(FEP).
SDK +
SITATEX
MQ–Type B
MATIP-Type B
Customer’s
own interface
The SITA view:
MATIP is simpler, with fewer components, but has no Internet Access.
If customer has MQ in place, then it should be used.
If customer has another middleware environment, it may be possible to develop a Type Interface
27. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 27 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Application
Interface: MATIP-Type B
IPVPN
GMSNet
Type B Service
Via the IPVPN
SITA Domain
Customer’s
MATIP Application
Support IPSec
28. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 28 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products –
Application Interface: MQ-Type B
Customers looking for a way
to connect that does not
require direct software
development.
Target: New and existing
users of Type B requesting:
– IP based access to the SITA
Type B switch
– Server based access to the
SITA Type B switch
– Communication based on
standard middleware.
Typically these users are:
– Middle size customers – such as
tier 2 and 3 airlines
– ASPs – e.g. electronic flight bag,
flight plans, weather, etc.
– Some tier 1 airlines.
Uses IBM’s MQ
middleware software,
available on several
platforms:
– From PC to the very large
servers
– IBM and other hardware
vendor platforms
– Large package of
functionality.
SDK +
SITATEX
MQ–Type B
MATIP-Type B
Customer’s
own interface
29. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 29 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products –
Application Interface: Access for MQ-Type B
SDK +
SITATEX
MQ–Type B
MATIP-Type B
Customer’s
own interface
IPVPN
GMSNet
IPTMQ
Server Type B Service
Customer’s
MQ server
MQ
Server
1. Via the IPVPN
SITA Domain
2.1. Via the Internet
Internet
Customer’s
MQ server
Firewall
Firewall
SSL
Accelerator
IPTMQ
Server Type B Service
MQ
Server
SITA Domain
Verisign
(Certification Authority)
30. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 30 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Application Interfaces
SDK +
SITATEX
MQ–Type B
MATIP-Type B
Customer’s
own interface
Application Programming Interfaces are the interfaces that SITA offers
customers for them to connect their servers and hosts.
SITA can support four types of customer interfaces:
– SMTP
Used for low volume streams by customers
– MQ Series
Around 140 customer connections in beginning of 2009
– MATIP
Around 140 customer connections in beginning of 2009
– Legacy interfaces built by customers
Around 200 customer connections in beginning of 2009
SITA offers two API
– SITATEX + SDK (Software Development Kit)
Around 800 customer connections in beginning of 2009
– A Type X interface to support XML
Launched late 2007, with 2 customers in production and a pipeline growing
Relative Positoning
– Application Interfaces are provided as Customer Premises Equipment)
– Gateways are hosted on the SITA Network.
31. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 31 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products –
Application Interface: SDK + SITATEX
SDK +
SITATEX
MQ–Type B
MATIP-Type B
Customer’s
own interface
The Software Development Kit (SDK) provides an interface between the a
user developed application and the Type B environment
Runs in a PC based environment
Based on simple file mechanism:
– OUT Sub-directory: Files containing message ready to be sent
– IN Sub-directory: Files containing incoming messages
Drives Type B revenue via the application or users
Target Market
– Customers looking for a simple and low cost Type B messaging interface:
Airlines, ground handlers, government agencies – with a focus on the
smaller ones
Small application providers.
Key Selling Points
– Cost effective client based messaging solution for the ATI
– Flexible network access options
Secure transmission of mission critical messages and documents in
Type B format
The Internet.
800 customers use SDK. Such as Qatar Airways use it for high volume.
32. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 32 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products –
Application Interface: Customer’s own interface
SDK +
SITATEX
MQ–Type B
MATIP-Type B
Customer’s
own interface
Customers can build their own interfaces to connect
their legacy hosts into the SITA Type B network.
Used with the following protocols:
– P1X24 protocols
– AX.25
– X.25 – typically based on EMTOX.
Are being phased out to:
– Reduce Type B connection cost
– Reduce hard- and software maintenance cost of IBM or
UNISYS environment
– Migrate from transport protocols that are reaching end-of-
life.
33. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 33 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products –
Application Interfaces – Positioning
SDK +
SITATEX
MQ–Type B
MATIP-Type B
Customer’s
own interface
SITATEX +
SDK
MATIP
MQ Access
to Type B
Entry Cost
Traffic Volume
Low traffic volumes
PC Platform only
Simple
High Volume Traffic
Host generated traffic
Purpose designed*
Medium traffic volumes
Many platforms
Many features
MQ is increasing in use
* MATIP entry costs can be very visible
34. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 34 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products –EDI Standards Conversion
EDI Clearing
House
SPEC
Conversion
Service
Cargo
Community
System
Standards conversion works at the Application Level
Two organisations, who wish to exchange data, may be using different EDI
standards.
– Boeing (Aviation) has committed to SPEC 2000
– Munroe shock absorbers (US Automotive) uses ANSI X.12
They do not wish to take the cost/effort of handing different standards.
They go to a third party who has developed an application to convert between the
two.
They are pleased to subscribe to the conversion service, and pay a fee per
transaction.
They are very pleased if they can get to the Conversion Service over an existing
connection.
Customer
Host
Conversion
Service
SITA
EDI
Standard A
Customer
Host
EDI
Standard Z
‘A’ Message
‘Z’ Message
‘A’ Message
‘Z’ Message
35. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 35 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - EDI
Standards Conversion:
Cargo Community Service (CCS)
EDI Clearing
House
SPEC
Conversion
Service
Cargo
Community
System
Electronic document exchange for airlines and shippers,
forwarders and handlers
Supports and converts industry data interchange standards
– IATA CargoIMP
– ASC X12
– EDIFACT
Single connection to central switch that:
– Translates date between formats
– Manages different communication methods.
Launched in early 1990s
– Immediate take up by 80 airlines and 200 partners
– Limited growth in users.
36. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 36 ©SITA
SITA’s
Operational
Messaging
Networks
SkyForm
on PC
Small SPEC 2000 office
SkyForm
for LAN
Customer
SPEC Host
Large
SPEC
2000
office
SPEC 2000-X.12
Conversion
EDI Clearing House
ATI Messaging Products - EDI Standards
Conversion: SPEC Conversion Service
A network based value added service SITA
Operational Messaging Services
Converts message syntax for electronic
trading in the aerospace sector.
– American Standards Code X.12
– ATA SPEC 2000
Maps between standards, in either direction
Access:
– IATA Type B messages using SPEC 2000
messages
– X.400 transport using ASC X.12
messages
– SITA EDI Clearing House
– SITA Skyform
EDI Clearing
House
SPEC
Conversion
Service
Cargo
Community
Service
SkyHost
Interface
X.12
Host
Customer
Host
37. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 37 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways
SMTP SMS Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
Gateways are network based and act as the interface with other networks that use
different protocols
The SITA gateways interconnect network by performing the required protocol
conversions
They preserve the data content, but re-allocate it into the segments and format used
by the other network.
IPVPN
Mobile users
SITA
Network
High volume
Single-user PC
Internet
connection
Dial Up
TYPE B
TYPE B
Type X
Type X
SMTP
SMS
Telex
ACARS
Fax
AFTN
ARINC
38. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 38 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: Type B
SMTP SMS Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
In the beginning was…..the Type B Community
As other technology communities grew, they sought to exchange with the Type B Community
The underlying switching environment was developed in X.400
In the diagram:
– The Type B Gateway server is mapping between Type B and X.400 message standards
– The SMTP Gateway server is mapping between IP and X.400 message standards.
Mapping for IATA EDI standards will need to be configured on the Type B Gateway.
Limitations on Type B has an effect, eg:
– The max character length is 3000ch, so multiple messages might go out to Type B
– There is an overall size limitation of 64k for messages (2Mb for documents) to Type B
– All messages will go to Type B with the QN priority.
TYPE B
Type X
SITA’s
Internal
X.400 Network
SITA
IP VPN
SITA
TYPE B
Network SITA Type B Hosts
Type B
Gateway
SMTP
Gateway
Type B
Community
IP
Community
The central switching environment is X.400
MSExchange, Lotus Notes
Other IP Messaging Applications
39. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 39 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: Type X
SMTP SMS
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
This is the core of the SITA Type X Service.
Type X-Type B gateway, that maps Type B and Type X message structures
(i.e. address mapping, priority mapping etc.).
Payload or message content conversion that allows conversion of standard
or customized formats conversion to/from XML.
Powerful proposition for new Type X implementation, because their
business partners will be using Type B.
TYPE B
40. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 40 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: SMTP
SMTP SMS
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
The Simple Mail Transfer Protocol is part of the TCP/IP suite, defined by RFC’s
822 and 821. In the OSI 7 layer model SMTP sits at layers 5, 6 and 7.
A diagram is shown in the preceding slide on the Type B Gateway
External access to the SMTP Gateway Service is provided by a SITA IP VPN
connection.
The SMTP Gateway:
– enables a degree of integration between standard IP messaging and
Type B messaging
– is designed for a medium volumes of messages
– was not designed to convert any of the industry’s operational messaging
(which must be specifically customised on the Type B gateway)
SMTP mailboxes (i.e a “Hotmail” type of mailbox) available.
The SMPT Gateway has been used by Business Direct to create a low cost
mailbox solution to Type B by mapping the SMTP address to Type B addresses.
TYPE B
Note:
Currently SMTP to Type B traffic is billed as X.400 traffic. Product Management state that they are
“working to change this, so that this traffic will be billed as Type B traffic”.
Check with John Picot/Andrew Coleman if the SMTP Gateway is to be sold as part of a solution.
Refer to SMTP to Type B – Service Description.doc
41. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 41 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: ARINC
SMTP SMS
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
Receiver
Originator
ARINC SITA
Path A - B1 Gateway charged to Originator by ARINC
Path B2 Gateway - C charged to Originator by SITA
A C
Gateway
B1 B2
The airline community requires SITA to interconnect the SITA
Messaging switch via a gateway to the ARINC network
This allows users, terminals and systems of each network to
communicate with each other.
Customers pay more for traffic via the gateway than for traffic
that uses just one provider because the customer will be
charged by both SITA & ARINC
Gateways operate under a contract agreed in 2005.
TYPE B
42. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 42 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: AFTN
SMTP SMS
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
Each Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) runs its own network,
compliant with the AFTN specification.
These national networks are inter-connected.
Used to exchange information to ensure safety of air
navigation and to control air traffic between different
geographic areas or states.
These integrated AFTNs:
– Uses store and forward messaging
– Follow a standard for message content
– Uses a different addressing standard to Type B
– Normally uses low-speed circuits
– Medium-speed circuits connect major regions.
SITA connects to 50 AFTNs
AMHS - Aeronautical Message Handling Services – is the ICAO defined replacement for AFTN.
Implementation of the protocol has been extremely slow with very few countries actually running an AMHS
based network.
SITA has been discussing AMHS gateway functions with a few countries but there is no commercially valid
demand at the moment (2009)
TYPE B
43. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 43 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: AFTN National
AFTN/CIDIN
Comms. Centre
SITA NTS (SIN)
(AFTN & Telex Server)
SITA’s
Operational
Messaging
Networks
XIS
Async connection
From 50 – 4800 baud
Dual Access
2 x X.25 channels
X.25 Service
(without BATAP*)
Hunt Group
2 x X.25 channels
MTN
Access Layer
AFTN Gateway in Singapore: (NTS)
– The AFTN Gateway in Singapore does not act as an AFTN
interconnection.
– It maps between AFTN and Type B addresses in both directions
It is necessary for each CAA to connect to the SITA Network
– Circuits have to be configured to accept input in AFTN format.
– Today, CAAs in over 50 countries connect to the SITA Network
through over 200 specially configured circuits.
SITA’s Type B Messaging Service supports two distinct flows of
traffic involving AFTN users:
– Traffic between CAAs - from one AFTN user in Country A to AFTN
user in Country B.
– Traffic between CAAs and Airline Type B users
SITA Type B users sending messages to an AFTN user can
either:
– Generate Type B messages (SITA translates the Type B
addresses to AFTN addresses), or
– Generate AFTN messages, and add a Type B header with a SITA
processing address
(SITA then removes the Type B header and delivers the AFTN message).
The AFTN Gateway service is not always bi-directional. Take
care!
Refer to 609_TypeB-AFTN addressing v2.1.doc
(*Type B Application to Application Protocol)
SMTP SMS Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
TYPE B
Type X
Refer to 609_AFTN Gateway Locations.doc
44. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 44 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: ACARS
SMTP SMS
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
Remote Ground
Station
Airline Data Centre
Remote Ground
Station
Airline Data Centre
ACARS DSP
Data Service Providers
Ground-Ground segment
Air-Ground segment
ARINC SITA
ARINC’s
Operational
Messaging
Networks
SITA’s
Operational
Messaging
Networks
ACARS - Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System
Allows an equipped aircraft to act as mobile communications terminal
Provides message transfer between airborne users and ground users using the
ACARS protocol:
- Air-Ground segment (618 Specification ) - Type A
- Ground-Ground segment (620 Specification) - Type B
The Data Service Providers (DSP) translate between the protocols and formats
of the two type of messages.
TYPE B
SITA-ARINC
Gateway
45. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 45 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: SMS
The SMS service accepts SMS messages though
HTTP or Type B connections and forwards the
individual SMS message to the mobile phone provider
that owns the subscription of the phone number.
SMS message are not sent direct to mobile users in
other countries. (The ’Hot Potato’ principle)
Application examples:
Departure Applications
– Up sell
– Pre-flight check-in
– Seat selection
– Boarding information
– Flight changes
– Automatic flight rebooking
– Flight alerts
Full itinerary integration
– Updating and scheduling services
– Destination information
– Post flight customer Contact
– Lost bag delivery
SMTP SMS
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
Enterprise
Applications
CRM
Middle-
ware
ERP
RESA
Other
Unimobile Intelligent
Network
Telco
Carriers
SITA
Mobile Messaging
Platform Mobile &
Desktop
Devices
WIRELESS
APPLICATIONS
Enterprise
Desktops
Desktop & Browser
Clients
TYPE B
46. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 46 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: Fax
SMTP SMS
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
Service that enables Type B users to:
– Send a fax from a Type B enabled system
Address format describes the telephone number to fax to
– Receive Type B messages as faxes
Map your Type B address to your Fax number
Extends the reach of Type B users.
Often used to communicate Freeform text or SITATEX messages
Sender pays the fax charge – instead of the Type B charge
It can be cost effective for international deliveries, since the fax is
output locally. This avoids IDD (International Direct Dial)
charges.
TYPE B
47. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 47 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Gateways: Telex
SMTP SMS
Type X Telex
ACARS Fax
AFTN
ARINC
Simplifies the exchange of messages between the airlines and their
many industry partners who may not SITA Network users.
A gateway to public telex networks around the world, via Easylink
and Wirefast.
The Surcharge for TELEX delivery is billed to sender of the message.
There are two variants, with use different address conventions:
– Registered Telex and RTX.
TYPE B
SITA’s
Operational
Messaging
Networks
International
Telex
Networks
EASYLINK
USA
WIREFAST
UK
SITA
TGA
Switch
Telex
Terminals
48. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 48 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products -Transport:
Private
IPVPN
Internet AX.25 Asynch
P1X24
Type B over
X.25
EXISTS, BUT AT END OF LIFE
Hosts and Applications can connect to the Type B Service via:
– IP network services:
IP VPN
ATeX
(also Frame Relay Access and LAN Access)
– Internet
– IP access will need either:
MATIP (Mapping Airline Traffic over IP) – private IP only
MQ - private IP or Internet
SITATEX + SDK - private IP or Internet
– Dial: PPP and X.28
– P1024, P1124, AX.25, X.25
End users can use SITATEX or Web Type B to connect to the Type
B services via:
– IPVPN and Internet (Growing)
– All of the above protocols (Declining)
DIAL
PPP X.28
49. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 49 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Transport: IP
IPVPN, ATeX
– (LAN Access, Frame Relay)
Works with:
– MATIP
– MQ
– SITATEX version 7
Simple to administrate with no
PKI/IPSec involved
Usually used by customers that
already has a private IP connection –
which has the following additional
advantages:
– Free connection (virtually!)
– To use this service the customer will
need to be configured on the GMS
(Global Messaging Service) Extranet
(part of ServiceNet)
Always based on IPSec using PKI
certificates
Works with:
– MQ
– SITATEX version 7
Usually used by new customers that
already have Internet access:
– Free connection (virtually!)
– No work needed to acquire new
connections
Private
IPVPN
Internet AX.25 Asynch
P1X24
EXISTS, BUT AT END OF LIFE
Type B over
X.25
DIAL
PPP X.28
Private IP Internet
50. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 50 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Transport: Type B over
X.25
AX.25 Asynch
P1X24
Type B over
X.25
EXISTS, BUT AT END OF LIFE
X.25 is still used by over 100 connections
Requires:
– EMTOX (Exchange of Mixed Type A/Type B over X.25)
– BATAP (Type B Application to Application Protocol)
– The specifications can be provided by SITA.
SITA recommends that customers migrate these connections
to IP
Private
IPVPN
Internet
DIAL
PPP X.28
51. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 51 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Transport: DIAL
Fast dial speed remote
access to the customer
Intranet
– PPP over PSTN dial
access (Asynchronous)
Full V.90 support (PC
sends at 33K- Host
sends at 56Kbps)
Supports 56.4K Flex
and V34 modems
Available in 631
locations (via x.28
nodes)
– PPP over ISDN dial
access (Synchronous)
Standard 64Kbps
ISDN access support
in 200 cities
PPP services enter
directly into the Type B
Service.
AX.25 Asynch
P1X24
EXISTS, BUT AT END OF LIFE
Private
IPVPN
Internet
Type B over
X.25
DIAL
PPP X.28
Used for SITATEX only
Support for dial up access to Type B
SITATEX mailbox
Global Managed access:
– Consistent 28.8kbps
– V90 modem support
– Uniform Log on Procedure.
PPP DIAL
X.28 DIAL
SITA’s
Networks
SITA Modem
Bank
DNA
Type B Host
X.25
X.28 Dial
Application
Mobile User
X.28 Dial
X.25
SITA SAS
Secure Access Server
PSTN
X.28 DIAL
SITATEX User
SITATEX Mailbox
‘Store and Retrieve’
52. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 52 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Transport: In use, but at
end of life
AX.25 and P1X24 are still used by
100 customer connections.
These protocols are old,
expensive and entering end of life.
SITA recommends that customers
migrate from these connections.
SITA’s support costs are causing
these connection prices to
increase.
The replacement solution is:
– MATIP or MQ
– IPVPN.
Asynchronous connections are
closer to end of life.
Local PTT planning to close.
This is already affecting some
AFTN connections.
AX.25 Asynch
P1X24
EXISTS, BUT AT END OF LIFE
Private
IPVPN
Internet
Type B over
X.25
DIAL
PPP X.28
Direct Connections
Asynchronous (X.28)
connections
53. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 53 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Service Platforms:
Mega-Switches
Designed to handle hundreds
of connections
High speed throughput
Frequent client download.
No significant queues
Hardware platform upgraded
in 2006
SITATEX Servers
Designed to support thousands of
connections
Lower speed throughput
Infrequent client download.
Message queues per server
Hardware platform upgrade
project running at the moment
Mega-Switch
ATL & SIN
SITATEX Servers
ATL and SIN
Switches are duplicated in each location
Both switching technologies support:
– Audit trail
– 7 days storage (minimum default storage)
– Some specific message types are stored for 3 months (eg
APIS)
– Message tracing facilities
NTS
AFTN Server
NTS
AFTN Server
SITA has 500 connections SITA has 13,000 connections
54. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 54 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Service Strategy
To actively manage and drive the Type B/Operational Messaging
business
To actively engage with Type B/Operational Messaging customers
To actively retain, secure, grow/build the Type B/Operational Messaging
business
To demonstrate the current value of the Type B/Operational Messaging
Service to customers, to move their perceptions away from a
commoditization of the service, and then to build on this.
To ensure a robust Service.
To augment and develop the Type B/Operational Messaging business
with new services and new technologies
55. CSBU - ATI Messaging Solutions Line - Products | September 2009 | 55 ©SITA
ATI Messaging Products - Development Plan – 2009-
2010
MQ over Internet to Type B
Type B – Long term full storage
Messaging Infrastructure re-engineering
SMTP to Type B – Migration of billing to Type B
Messaging Data Warehouse
Development of a “Unique Message Identifier”
Type X – Full commercialization
AIDX
Development of Customer ATI Application Messaging Traffic
and Performance Reports
Definition of requirements for ATI Application Messaging
Account developments
Establishment of the role of the “Messaging Specialists”
Editor's Notes EDI - Electronic Data Interchange GDS = Global Distribution System
DCS = Departure Control System SMTP = Simple Mail Transport Protocol
V4
Freeform was one of your requirements.
I still cannot see what I am describing here.
Should it be in the standards section?
Is it Sitatex?
Or is it the REMark filed of a message?
Or such as the freeform in the MVT message in Session 1 slide 30
SMTP = Simple Mail Transport Protocol SMTP = Simple Mail Transport Protocol The Message Daemon runs in the background and provides an interface between SITATEX message queues and the user developed application.
The Message Daemon can be run:
On the same PC as the user application
On a separate PC connected to a LAN file server (with a shared folder)
The SITATEX Development Kit (message daemon) enables Customer applications to interface directly with SITATEX in order to automate the sending and receiving of application readable messages in Type B format.
AFTN = Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunications Network