System Setup – FTP Providers

Configure FTP/SFTP connections for automated file exchange with external providers.

Overview

The FTP Providers section in System Setup is used to configure FTP (File Transfer Protocol) connections for various services. This setup enables the system to securely exchange files (such as booking data, manifests, or reports) with external providers through FTP servers. Each provider (e.g., Inflight Service FTP, Airshoppen FTP, Paxport FTP) can be configured separately.

FTP usernames and passwords are sensitive.

Restrict access and rotate credentials if you suspect exposure.

Purpose

The purpose of this configuration is to establish automated file transfers between the system and external providers. Correct FTP setup ensures seamless communication, file synchronization, and data integration without requiring manual uploads or downloads.

Fields & Options

1. Username

• Description: The login username required to access the FTP server.

• Purpose: Authenticates the system with the provider’s FTP server.

• Instruction: Enter the FTP account username provided by the service provider.

2. Password

• Description: The password paired with the username for FTP login.

• Purpose: Provides secure authentication for file transfer.

• Instruction: Enter the password exactly as provided. Use the eye icon to reveal it if necessary.

3. Host Address

• Description: The domain name or IP address of the FTP server.

• Purpose: Specifies the location of the external FTP server.

• Instruction: Enter the FTP host (e.g., ftp.provider.com or 192.168.1.1).

4. File Prefix

• Description: A text string that will be added at the beginning of files transferred.

• Purpose: Helps organize or distinguish files, preventing overwrites or confusion.

• Instruction: Define a unique prefix if required by the provider (e.g., report_).

5. Folder

• Description: The target directory on the FTP server where files will be uploaded or downloaded.

• Purpose: Ensures files are transferred to the correct location.

• Instruction: Enter the path of the designated folder (e.g., /incoming or /exports).

6. Port

• Description: The communication port used to connect to the FTP server.

• Default Value: 21 (standard FTP port).

• Instruction: Enter the port number if the provider specifies a custom one. Otherwise, leave it as 21.

7. Secure FTP

• Description: Checkbox to enable SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) or FTPS (FTP over SSL).

• Purpose: Ensures files are transferred over an encrypted connection for better security.

• Instruction: Tick this box if the provider requires secure FTP access.

8. Enabled

• Description: Checkbox to activate or deactivate the FTP configuration.

• Purpose: Determines whether this FTP setup is active.

• Instruction: Tick this box to enable the connection. Leave unticked if the setup is not yet ready.

Instructions for Configuration

1. Navigate to Setup → System Setup → FTP Providers.

2. Select the appropriate tab for the provider you need to configure (e.g., Inflight Service FTP).

3. Fill in the required fields:

   • Username and Password as provided by the FTP provider.

   • Host Address of the FTP server.

   • Port (leave as 21 unless otherwise specified).

   • Optional fields: File Prefix and Folder depending on provider requirements.

4. Tick Secure FTP if the provider uses encrypted connections.

5. Tick Enabled to activate the configuration.

6. Save the configuration.

✅ Once saved, the system will automatically use this setup for exchanging files with the configured provider.

Troubleshooting Guide

1. Login Failed / Authentication Error

• Cause: Incorrect username or password.

• Solution: Double-check credentials with the provider and re-enter them carefully.

2. Unable to Connect to FTP Server

• Cause: Wrong host address or firewall blocking the connection.

• Solution: Verify the Host Address and Port. Check with IT if firewall rules are blocking access.

3. Port Connection Timeout

• Cause: Wrong port number or provider requires Secure FTP.

• Solution: Confirm the correct port (default is 21 for FTP, 22 for SFTP). Enable Secure FTP if needed.

4. Files Not Appearing in Correct Location

• Cause: Incorrect folder path.

• Solution: Verify the Folder field matches the provider’s designated directory.

5. Duplicate or Overwritten Files

• Cause: No unique file naming convention.

• Solution: Use a File Prefix (e.g., daily_ or report_) to avoid overwriting.

6. Connection Works but Files Transfer Insecurely

• Cause: Secure FTP not enabled.

• Solution: Tick the Secure FTP checkbox if encryption is required.

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✅ Tips: Always confirm the required FTP details (username, password, host, port, folder, security requirements) directly with the provider before making changes. If an error persists after checking all fields, escalate the issue to the IT/security team.

FAQ

What’s the difference between FTP, FTPS, and SFTP?

FTP is unencrypted.

FTPS is FTP over SSL/TLS.

SFTP is a different protocol that runs over SSH (usually port 22).

What does “Secure FTP” enable?

It enables encrypted file transfer.

Depending on your provider, this may mean SFTP or FTPS.

Which port should I use?

Use the port provided by the provider.

Common defaults are 21 (FTP/FTPS) and 22 (SFTP).

How do I test that the configuration works?

Enable the configuration and trigger the relevant export/import flow.

Then confirm the file appears in the expected folder on the provider side.

Why do files land in the wrong folder?

Usually the folder path is wrong or uses the wrong format.

Confirm the exact path with the provider and mirror it exactly.