IATA confirms CUSS 2 transition timeline begins end of 2026

The IATA CUSS Task Force has agreed that the cutover to CUSS 2 starts at the end of 2026. There will be no single 'switch-over day' for the transition, providing a phased roadmap for the industry.

What CUSS 2 delivers

CUSS 2 builds on existing Common Use Self-Service with a more flexible, secure, and web-native foundation. The goal remains helping multiple airlines share self-service resources efficiently, but the scope has expanded. Common Use now includes bag drop, self-service processes, and new passenger touchpoints beyond traditional check-in kiosks.

The new platform uses newer technologies, improves security, and supports more types of devices. It is designed to make adding new features easier in the future. IATA aims to enable evolution in a more flexible way while strengthening standards for consistent deployments across airports.

CUSS 1 phase-out details

Deprecation of CUSS 1 does not mean airline applications immediately stop functioning. Existing applications will continue to work when CUSS 2 is introduced. However, no further updates, enhancements, or new functionality will be developed for CUSS 1 after the cutover begins. All future innovation will be focused solely on CUSS 2.

Why early alignment matters

Airports, airlines, and vendors can begin aligning plans, priorities, and dependencies with confidence now the timeline is set. Early alignment helps reduce uncertainty and ensures everyone works from the same assumptions. It provides time to coordinate certification and testing sensibly.

The most useful place to start is engaging internal stakeholders, airline partners, airport teams, and suppliers. This builds a shared understanding of timelines, dependencies, and readiness. Such coordination creates a more predictable path to CUSS 2 and aims to avoid unnecessary disruption in live airport operations.

SITA’s role in the transition

Technology provider SITA supports customers through this shift. "We have the industry’s largest Common Use footprint across more than 400 airports," SITA said. The company helps customers align, plan, and move at the right pace.

SITA offers a route forward that avoids duplication and keeps commitments stable. Clear communication from early decisions through delivery is emphasized. With IATA’s phased roadmap and proper planning, the transition to CUSS 2 is intended to be steady and workable, not a cliff edge.

Airports, airlines, and vendors can begin aligning plans, priorities, and dependencies with confidence.