Aviation Sector in India Touches New Highs in Sustainability

Even as India’s air transport sector soars to new highs, a remarkable shift towards sustainability is conjuring a makeover on the ground as the country aims to be a global leader in adopting sustainable aviation practices. The development in the context of the country’s ambitious net zero targets are significant as aviation as a sector is among the world’s top emitters of greenhouse gases, which are primarily responsible for global warming and its depredations. Indeed, if the aviation sectors of all nations were collectively a country, it would be among the three worst offending nations on earth. 

In that context, India’s achievements are unquestionably commendable: Over the last decade, 73 of its airports out of 134 airports have moved completely over to green energy sources, leapfrogging the country to among the frontrunners in global race towards carbon neutrality.  

At the centre of this impressive transition are the increasingly ubiquitous solar power plants at the country’s growing network of airports, providing all the energy they need to operate. The captive solar plants are being supplemented by open source access of renewable energy by many airports.  

Powered by these changes, the Cochin International Airport won the coveted UN Champions of Earth Award in 2018, as the world’s first Green Airport. Even as the existing airports are being transformed, the Ministry of Civil Aviation is ensuring that its new airports are constructed in compliance with carbon neutrality standards from the scratch.  

Thus far India has built 12 fully sustainable Greenfield Airports, exemplifying its commitment to sustainable infrastructure development. Alongside, its major international airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Hyderabad, continue to win top green certifications from the Airports Council International, reflecting their resolve to enhance air connectivity and capacity in a sustainable manner. All these airports have achieved Level 4+ certifications, a confirmation of their carbon neutral status.