The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has welcomed the introduction of the next-generation Public Key Directory (PKD) by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), highlighting its role in advancing secure and efficient global travel systems.

The upgraded PKD marks a step forward in the use of digital tools to support border management, enabling real-time verification of travel documents and improving coordination between governments, airlines and airports.

Supporting Modern Border Systems

WTTC has consistently emphasised the need to modernise border infrastructure to keep pace with the growing demand for international travel. Its Better Borders report outlines how improved systems can contribute to economic growth and operational efficiency across regions.

According to the report, the Travel & Tourism sector is projected to reach $16.5 trillion in global GDP by 2035, accounting for 12.5% of global employment. It also indicates that improved border management could add an additional $401 billion to GDP and generate millions of jobs across G20, European Union, and African Union countries.

Digital Verification and Passenger Processing

ICAO's enhanced PKD system enables real-time validation of digital travel credentials, thereby supporting more reliable document authentication. This capability is expected to reduce manual checks while maintaining security standards.

The system also supports remote verification processes and biometric integration, helping streamline passenger movement through border control points while maintaining compliance with security requirements.

Industry Perspective

Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, said the development aligns with the organisation's focus on enabling smoother and more connected travel experiences. She noted that digital verification systems can support both security and operational efficiency at borders.

Enabling a More Connected Travel Ecosystem

The introduction of ICAO's next-generation PKD reflects a broader shift towards digital transformation in travel and border management. By combining secure data exchange with improved processing capabilities, such systems contribute to a more coordinated and resilient global travel ecosystem.

WTTC continues to advocate for the adoption of technology-driven solutions that support both travellers and industry stakeholders, with a focus on long-term sustainability and operational reliability.