Heydar Aliyev International Airport showcases leadership in aviation decarbonization at COP29

During the COP29 climate conference, a special event co-organized by Heydar Aliyev International Airport and the Airports Council International Europe (ACI EUROPE) showcased the global airport industry's accelerated efforts towards decarbonization. At the event, Heydar Aliyev International Airport was awarded the Level 2 “Reduction” certification under the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program for its progress in reducing carbon emissions.
“We view environmental protection not only as a strategic goal but also as a significant responsibility to future generations. This achievement inspires us to take further steps, reach the “Optimization” level, and implement more advanced technologies and innovative initiatives in the field of sustainable development. This success is not only a reflection of the commitment of Heydar Aliyev International Airport but also demonstrates Azerbaijan's dedication to sustainable development principles. Environmental responsibility in aviation is no longer a choice; it is a necessity of our time,” said Samir Rzayev, President of Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC.
ACI EUROPE Director General Olivier Jankovec stated: “Passing the milestone of 600 accredited airports is yet another achievement on our way to fully decarbonise airport operations. Airport Carbon Accreditation has actually been on an uninterrupted upward trend since its inception back in 2009 – when just 17 airports had joined the programme. This speaks volumes about the extent to which airports have been embracing climate action and delivering tangible carbon reductions into the millions of tonnes annually. This ultimately reflects how airports globally are putting sustainability at the core of their business. I warmly congratulate Azerbaijan’s capital airport for joining our climate action community and for being pioneers in their sub-region.”
The event also featured a panel discussion titled “Decarbonizing Aviation and the Global Framework: Current Status and Perspectives,” with the participation of ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci and Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) Executive Director Haldane Dodd. Industry leaders discussed the key challenges and opportunities in achieving sustainable development goals, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and the implementation of innovative technologies.
Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World commented: “Airports are true to their word on climate action – this fact was again showcased in full force today at COP29. Against a backdrop of a challenging political landscape for climate action, there is a need to collectively reaffirm our direction to reach net zero emissions by 2050. Aviation brings tremendous benefits for our society and economy. Airports and their stakeholders must continue addressing their carbon footprint whilst safeguarding aviation’s unique role in driving prosperity and enhancing resilience to climate impacts. We eagerly look to States around the world to deliver supporting frameworks to make ICAO’s Long-Term Aspirational Goal achievable.”
It is worth noting that Heydar Aliyev International Airport continues to support Azerbaijan’s environmental goals by implementing innovative solutions to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.