Skip to content
Legacy System Modernization for a Canadian Airline

Aviation

Disruption Management
for a Canadian Airline

Disruption Management
for a Canadian Airline

Success Story

A leading Canadian airline needed to modernize its legacy integration infrastructure ahead of end-of-support deadlines for key IBM tools. These backend systems supported everything from ticketing to third-party services but were reliant on outdated middleware. 

To avoid disruption and reduce long-term risk, the airline entrusted Scalefocus to implement a seamless modernization and future-proof the platform without compromising operations. Our team delivered a structured, risk-free upgrade that stabilized critical systems and aligned all components with supported versions. 

Up-to-date, fully supported versions of all software

Scalability due
to microservices integration

Enhanced processes, compliance, and reliability

The Client

A well-established Canadian carrier with a large, interconnected technology landscape built over many years. Their internal systems rely heavily on IBM integration tools and custom services that are essential to the company’s day-to-day operations.

The Challenge 

When the airline approached Scalefocus, several critical IBM integration components were nearing end-of-support deadlines. Technologies such as IBM IIB, ACE, MQ, DataPower, ODM, and DSI had not been updated for years, and much of the existing documentation was outdated or incomplete.

With support expiring across all environments, the company faced elevated operational and compliance risks. To prevent disruptions, the airline needed to modernize and stabilize its integration layer under very tight timelines. The task was made even more complex by legacy code, dependency inconsistencies, and the sheer scale of the environment.

The Solution

Scalefocus assembled an experienced team specializing in IBM integration technologies, Java, and Spring Boot to lead the end-to-end modernization effort. After studying the existing systems, the engineering unit created a structured upgrade plan that ensured continuity across environments while minimizing risk.

The team upgraded all required IBM components to supported, stable versions and refactored outdated integration logic to improve maintainability. In selected areas, lightweight microservices were introduced to replace isolated legacy functionalities, making specific processes easier to evolve and support in the future.

Throughout the engagement, Scalefocus worked carefully around incomplete documentation, resolving compatibility issues and optimizing legacy processes for stability and long-term maintainability. Despite significant time constraints, the modernization was executed smoothly and without service interruptions.

The Results

With Scalefocus’ support, the airline successfully transitioned from aging, unsupported systems to a stable and modernized integration environment. The partnership enabled the client to mitigate urgent operational risks while strengthening the long-term health of its technology ecosystem. Key outcomes included:

  • All critical IBM components now running on up-to-date, fully supported versions
  • Improved reliability through optimized legacy processes
  • A more maintainable and scalable integration layer
  • Eliminated support and compliance risks tied to outdated technologies
  • A solid foundation for future enhancements and modernization initiatives

The Technologies

IBM IIB
ACE
IMQ
DataPower
ODM
DSI
Java
Spring Boot

Client Success Stories

We have a global client base that includes Fortune 500 companies, innovative startups and industry leaders in Information Technology, E-Commerce, Insurance, Healthcare, Finance and Energy & Utilities.

Contact us