Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company and ICAO sign strategic agreement at COP29 for green airport and cargo village

In a landmark step toward advancing sustainable aviation, Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company (SW AFEZCO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) signed a strategic agreement at COP29. This cooperation embodies a shared vision and joint commitment to establish a certified green airport and cargo village in the Alat Free Economic Zone, supporting both ICAO’s and the Republic of Azerbaijan’s environmental sustainability goals.

The collaboration aims to develop environmentally sustainable airport operations that will comply with both national regulations and international environmental standards and best practices. Key areas of focus include technical guidance from ICAO for achievement of Green Airport certification, the integration of industry-leading environmental practices, and innovations to establish the Alat Free Economic Zone as a benchmark for sustainable airport operations.

“ICAO’s collaborations with the Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone on the establishment of a green airport reflects our shared commitment to advancing sustainable aviation infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and setting new standards for environmental responsibility in the region,” stated Nicolas Rallo, Regional Director for the ICAO Europe and North Atlantic Area. “This agreement also reflects the expanding cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and ICAO in various fields of civil aviation. Together, we are taking a significant step towards a more sustainable future for air transport."

“This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility and sets a transformative standard for sustainable airport and cargo operations in the region,” said Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Way Group. “We are proud to join forces with ICAO at such a significant forum as COP29, furthering our vision for a greener future in aviation.”

This agreement aims to achieve concrete sustainability goals by integrating low-carbon technologies, advanced waste management systems, and sustainable energy solutions into the airport’s design and operations. These efforts will ensure that the green airport and cargo village meet international standards and best practices while significantly reducing the environmental impact associated with aviation logistics.

SW AFEZCO and ICAO invite stakeholders throughout the aviation industry to join them in reimagining a sustainable future for airports and their global logistics and infrastructure. By establishing a green airport at the Alat Free Economic Zone, they aim not only to fulfill their commitments but also to inspire similar initiatives worldwide, demonstrating that sustainability and operational excellence can be achieved together.