Tuesday, March 4, 2025
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In recent decades, airports have evolved from simple transit hubs into dynamic ecosystems that seamlessly blend sustainability, cutting-edge technology and a passenger-first approach
Airports, management entities and companies are increasingly adopting innovative strategies to reduce the environmental impact of air travel. Gradually, sustainability is becoming a key pillar in airport management. In fact, several European airports are already recognized internationally for their efforts in this area.
One standout example is Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands, a pioneer in implementing green practices. This airfield has implemented efficient energy management systems to significantly reduce its CO₂ emissions since 2018 by using renewable energy and electrifying its ground fleet, replacing combustion vehicles with electric options, including buses, ground service equipment and taxis.
This airport has also introduced an intelligent lighting and climate management system, using sensors and optimization algorithms to minimize its energy consumption without sacrificing passenger comfort. Schiphol is also working on noise reduction by designing terrain with natural barriers and optimizing flight approach as well as plane takeoff routes.
Another major initiative at the Netherlands’ largest airport is the adoption of a circular economy model for waste management and infrastructure development. As an example, when it comes to the ongoing construction of Terminal A, the airport is using recycled and removable materials, ensuring they can be repurposed for future buildings.
Meanwhile, Spain also boasts remarkable examples of sustainable airport practices. AENA, the organization responsible for managing most of the country's airports, has launched similar initiatives. According to its president, Maurici Lucena, the aim is for “our airports to be carbon neutral by 2030, with an estimated investment of 750 million euros.” Among these initiatives are the installation of solar panels and the adoption of sustainable energy sources, among others.
Just like at Schiphol, AENA is prioritizing the electrification of its ground fleets and implementing a circular economy approach to waste management. This strategy includes recycling waste and reutilizing materials from demolished infrastructure, reducing the need for new resources and minimizing environmental impact.
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport has implemented solar lighting systems in their installations, reducing energy consumption and promoting the use of renewable sources. This project is part of a broader effort to improve energy efficiency across Spanish airports, incorporating buildings equipped with low-consumption LED lighting and geothermal climate control systems. These installations not only reduce energy consumption but also improve passenger comfort.
But perhaps one of the greatest drives towards sustainability comes from sustainable aviation fuels (SAF being its acronym), an option that has positioned itself as a viable solution to reduce CO₂ emissions in commercial flights. Furthermore, starting in 2025, European regulations require that at least 2% of jet fuel be sourced from SAF, with a target of reaching 70% by 2050. To achieve this, multi-energy companies like Moeve are focusing on the production of SAF in Spain, particularly at their La Rábida Energy Park, supplying major Spanish airports and leading airlines.
At the same time, both passengers and air traffic-related services are becoming increasingly aware of their environmental impact. As a result, mobile applications that help passengers calculate and offset the carbon footprint of their flights have become more widespread. On the other hand, airport stores and restaurants have also set up policies to eliminate single-use plastics, replacing them with biodegradable or reusable materials.
Sustainability and digitalization work together
But aerodrome transformation doesn’t only come with environmental commitment. Digitalization and artificial intelligence are transforming airport operations, enhancing both efficiency and passenger experience. AI-powered air traffic management systems are optimizing flight routes, leading to lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. By analyzing real-time data on variables like weather and air traffic flow, these models improve decision-making and overall efficiency.
By the same token, airport mobility is undergoing a revolution with the introduction of electric taxis and drones, reshaping transport within airport grounds. In Spain, AENA is already planning to carry out demonstration flights with electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (known as eVTOL) between 2025 and 2026, seeking to validate procedures and set standards for future operations. To add to that, more efficient and sustainable charging equipment is being developed, streamlining operations and further reducing the environmental impact.
As expected, automation and AI are being integrated into various airport processes, improving efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience. One of the most notable advancements among them involves security and boarding control, where automated systems and biometric recognition streamline procedures, reducing waiting times and improving accuracy.
Baggage management has also evolved, with advanced technologies that allow real-time monitoring, minimizing losses and facilitating recovery in case of incidents. Virtual assistants, chatbots and voice assistants also provide personalized information and assistance to passengers, resolving queries and providing real-time suggestions.
With sustainability-digitalization working hand in hand, a new airport model is emerging; smarter, more sustainable and seamlessly integrating advanced technologies with eco-friendly practices. A transformation that is essential to face the current and future challenges of the aviation sector, ensuring more efficient operations and an improved experience for passengers.
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