Are sustainable airports a tangible reality?

Airports, as critical nodes in global transportation, are undergoing a transformative shift towards sustainability. This transition was the focal point of a recently-held webinar titled Secure Pathways to Sustainability: Rethinking Airport Operations on February 28, 2025, engaging with top industry leaders from the aviation landscape.

The online event, organized by Inter Passenger Terminal Show (IPTS), and sponsored by dormakaba India, brought together leading experts to deliberate on sustainable airport design and operations, reflecting the aviation sector’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while enhancing passenger experiences.

A confluence of expertise

The panel featured representatives from renowned organisations, including Joeri Aulman, Global Director Business Development, Netherlands Airport Consultants (NACO); Gaurav Vatsa, Head of Design, Noida International Airport; Sridhar L, Head – Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG), Bangalore International Airport Limited; and Nitin Sharma, Regional Director Solution Sales, South Asia, dormakaba India. 

These experts – with a wealth of knowledge in aviation consulting, sustainable design, and technology solutions – set the stage for an insightful exchange on the future of airport operations.

The discussion highlighted that sustainability is no longer a peripheral concern but a central pillar in airport design and operations. The integration of sustainability principles not only aligns with global climate goals but also elevates the passenger experience. 

From energy-efficient infrastructure to enhanced comfort and accessibility, airports are reimagining their spaces to meet the needs of both the environment and travelers.

BIAL focuses on sustainability in action

A standout example in the conversation was Bangalore International Airport Limited’s (BIAL) ambitious “Sustainability 2030” strategy. This comprehensive framework encompasses water stewardship, net-zero carbon emissions, sustainable mobility, and a circular economy. The airport has already achieved water-positive status and operates entirely on renewable electricity.

Terminal 2, a hallmark of BIAL’s sustainability journey, epitomizes the “terminal in a garden” concept. The terminal integrates biophilic design elements, creating a serene atmosphere that promotes passenger well-being and mitigates travel-induced stress. Such initiatives highlight how sustainability can harmoniously align with enhancing passenger comfort.

Innovating through technology

The panel delved into the pivotal role of technology in achieving sustainability goals. Biometric boarding, contactless check-in, and energy-efficient systems are reshaping the passenger journey while reducing environmental impact. 

The concept of the “twin transition” – a simultaneous shift towards digitalization and sustainability – was presented as a strategic approach to modernizing airport operations.

Noida International Airport exemplifies this philosophy with its design, which incorporates shading devices, passive cooling mechanisms, and biophilic courtyards. These features not only optimize energy consumption but will also create pleasant, nature-infused spaces for passengers.

Harnessing renewable energy

Renewable energy generation has emerged as a cornerstone of sustainable airport operations. BIAL’s commitment to on-site solar power generation and off-site renewable energy procurement demonstrates how airports can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. Similarly, Noida International Airport’s plans for solar power installations underscore the sector’s shift away from fossil fuels.

However, the transition to green energy is not without challenges. Panelists highlighted the financial and operational hurdles associated with adopting renewable energy solutions. Overcoming these obstacles requires robust collaboration among government bodies, industry partners, and airport operators.

Collaborating and engaging aviation communities

Sustainability efforts must extend beyond airport boundaries. The panel emphasized the importance of inclusivity and community impact in green initiatives. Engaging local communities, fostering partnerships, and creating economic opportunities are essential to ensuring that sustainability benefits are equitably distributed.

As the aviation sector sets its sights on achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, continuous innovation and immediate action are imperative. The retrofitting of existing infrastructure, investment in new technologies, and nurturing of young talent will be vital to this journey.

The webinar panelists stressed that sustainable airports are not merely a vision of the future but a tangible reality being shaped today. Through collaboration, technological advancement, and unwavering commitment, airports are paving secure pathways to a more sustainable world.

About IPTS 2025

The inaugural edition of Inter Passenger Terminal Show (IPTS), organised by Media Fusion India, is gearing up to showcase the latest advancements, cutting-edge technologies, and innovative solutions in the field of passenger terminal design, operations, and enhancing passenger experiences.

The two-day trade show, set to take place on June 11 and 12, 2025 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, will serve as a platform that will enable the industry to capture the underlying potential in aviation travel, operation and passenger experience.