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Aviation sustainability towards 2026 and beyond
As we are moving to within less than a decade of the midpoint target under the HKIA 2050 Net Zero Carbon Pledge, sustainability at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has firmly shifted from aspiration to action. A recent industry analysis report published by the Air Transport Action Group underscores that while net zero carbon by 2050 remains achievable for the aviation sector, the next five years will be crucial.
Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) recognises this urgency and is accelerating progress through an airport-wide approach. We are scaling up the renewable diesel use for AAHK’s ground services equipment and emergency generators, and will also kick-start a dedicated campaign this year to promote sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at HKIA. In parallel, we strive to achieve green building certifications for new facilities, including the expanded Terminal 2. Together with the airport community, we remain committed to building a low-carbon and sustainable airport. Let’s take a look at some recent key milestones and updates from our broader sustainability journey:
- HKIA Carbon Capacity Building Programme (CCBP) – AAHK and Business Environment Council officially launched the Phase 2 of HKIA CCBP in January. The inaugural event featured updates on HKIA 2050 Net Zero Carbon Pledge, insights from 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) and a training workshop on Scope 3 emissions management. More details on HKIA CCBP are available in the “Spotlight” section.
- Annual Symposium 2026 of Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition (HKSAFC) – AAHK participated in the Annual Symposium 2026 of HKSAFC with fellow industry peers to discuss strategies for advancing SAF adoption in Hong Kong. AAHK also shared research insights on SAF demand mechanisms and considerations for SAF blending. Further details are available in “What’s happening” section.
- Key recyclables target achieved – AAHK achieved a milestone target that set in 2021 of increasing our recovery rate for recyclables by 25% by 2025 compared to a 2018 baseline. This is a result of AAHK’s long-term commitment to waste separation at source and implementation of various waste management initiatives.
- Wildlife Trade Awareness Workshop – To enhance understanding of Hong Kong’s wildlife trade challenges and strengthening cross-sector collaboration at HKIA, AAHK organised the workshop and brought together key stakeholders from the airport community, government departments, and non-profit organisations.
- Ongoing dialogue with stakeholders – AAHK continues our engagement with important stakeholders through the 15th Professional Liaison Group meeting and Green NGOs Roundtable held in February. Participants were given the updates of HKIA’s Three Runway System Project, other airport developments and environmental initiatives.
- Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence (HKAEE) – AAHK once again won the “Gold Award – Public and Community Services” at 2024 HKAEE, marking our sixth time being recognised. This continued affirmation reinforces our commitment to environmental excellence as we progress towards becoming the World’s Greenest Airport.
Looking ahead to 2026, we are excited to explore new opportunities for collaboration and to continue driving progress to achieve environmental excellence.
Peter Lee
Chief Sustainability Officer
Airport Authority Hong Kong
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A new chapter of Hong Kong International Airport Carbon Capacity Building Programme
Q&A with Kristy Tan, Senior Manager, Climate Resilience, AAHK
Q: The first phase of the Hong Kong International Airport Carbon Capacity Building Programme (HKIA CCBP) has successfully concluded. Could you share the key achievements from its first three years?
A: The first phase of the HKIA CCBP has been very encouraging. Over the past three years, we successfully organised a series of activities that attracted around 450 participants across 15 events, covering seven key decarbonisation‑related topics.
Through a combination of customised training, thematic workshops and sharing sessions, participants were able to deepen their understanding of carbon management and climate‑related challenges. We were also pleased to engage 34 external speakers, whose diverse expertise helped translate complex decarbonisation topics into practical insights. Overall, the programme has played an important role in raising awareness and building capabilities among our airport community as we work together towards the HKIA 2050 Net Zero Carbon Pledge.
Q: How have business partners (BPs) responded to the programme so far, what have they found most valuable, and what are they hoping to see more of in Phase 2?
A: Overall, our BPs have responded positively to the programme. We collected their feedback through brief surveys after each session. Partners especially appreciated the practical advice and knowledge provided by external experts, and many felt the sessions improved their understanding of the topics.
For Phase 2, there is strong interest in areas such as supply chain management, energy efficiency, low-carbon technologies, and climate risk management. Many partners have also requested more detailed content and interactive workshops to help them apply these concepts within their organisations.
Q: With Phase 2 launched in January, what will be different this time, and what new opportunities should BPs expect in the year ahead?
A: Phase 2 is dedicated to providing targeted and practical training, enhancing carbon management expertise among our BPs. The programme has been refined to include annual training courses, certified by reputable providers, ensuring continual professional development in this critical area.
On January 20, Phase 2 commenced with an inaugural event, uniting pledged BPs for an interactive workshop focused on Scope 3 emissions management. The session delivered actionable guidance and relevant case studies, equipping participants to address value chain emissions effectively.
To further empower partners on their net zero journey, AAHK has elevated its carbon management support. Beginning this year, each partner will receive a “Carbon Target Annual Progress Report” — a comprehensive resource offering in-depth performance data, insightful analysis of emission hotspots, and actionable recommendations. This report serves as a strategic tool to facilitate engagement with senior management, helping identify opportunities and address barriers to carbon reduction.
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The next five years matter for aviation decarbonisation
The Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) published the 3rd edition of Waypoint 2050 in February 2026, providing an updated assessment of the aviation industry’s progress towards achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The report reaffirms that the long‑term goal remains achievable but delivers a clear message: the next five years will be decisive.1 Without accelerated action and stronger policy, financial and cross‑sector support in the near term, the pathway to 2050 will become challenging.2
The report identifies a five‑year window for accelerated action and calls for progress across the following agenda:
- Scale the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) globally to match demand
- Reaffirm support for and continue to implement CORSIA*
- Deploy fuel-efficient aircraft faster into the fleet
- Modernise air traffic management systems
- Accelerate development and scaling of carbon removal
To illustrate the decarbonisation pathway, the report presents two indicative scenarios. Scenario one focuses on deployment of SAF. Scenario two adopts a technology‑driven approach, assuming stronger contributions from advanced aircraft technologies (such as the use of hybrid-electric powered aircraft).2 While the focus of these solutions differs, the report highlights that SAF remains a central pillar of aviation decarbonisation under both scenarios.
This analysis also identifies opportunities for further decarbonising the aviation sector, such as commitments to SAF offtake and cabin densification 2 (enabling more passengers to be seated on an aircraft). Importantly, the report signals a shift from ambition‑setting to practical implementation and cross‑sector collaboration. This direction aligns closely with developments in Hong Kong. According to the 2025 Policy Address, the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will develop a local SAF industry chain, including the construction of a SAF blending facility.3
As the operator of Hong Kong International Airport, AAHK recognises that SAF is the only currently available, scalable solution capable of delivering meaningful decarbonisation across the global aviation system, particularly for long‑haul operations where alternatives such as electrification or hydrogen are not yet technically or commercially viable.
AAHK has supported a strategic SAF study to inform Hong Kong Government policy, covering demand mechanisms, supply options, blending, and economic impacts. AAHK is also a core partner of the Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition and actively participates in industry dialogue with supply chain partners to support Hong Kong’s SAF roadmap.
Please read Waypoint 2050 to learn more.
* CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation) is a global market‑based scheme adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization to address carbon dioxide emissions from international aviation. Please visit CORSIA website for details.
References:
1. Next five years are crucial to aviation decarbonisation journey | ATAG
2. Waypoint 2050 | ATAG
3. Policy Address | The Chief Executive's 2025 Policy Address
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Reimagining sustainability at Hactl
Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) recently enhanced its North Office Block stairwell at SuperTerminal 1 with two new art installations created from upcycled materials. The installations highlight United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. In parallel, Hactl hosted its third “Relax and Take the Stairs” photo competition, encouraging staff to capture sustainability with creativity through their lens. The strong response and winning entries offered fresh perspectives on sustainable living and inspired collective action towards a greener future at Hactl.
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AAT reduces carbon emissions with sustainable fuel
Asia Airfreight Terminal (AAT) continues to move its decarbonisation journey forward by integrating Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) into its ground services equipment operations. The use of HVO can reduce carbon emissions by up to 85% compared with conventional diesel. As a pledged business partner of HKIA 2050 Net Zero Carbon Pledge, AAT is accelerating progress towards its 2035 mid-point target. This milestone also builds on earlier achievements, including full forklift fleet electrification, introduction of Hong Kong’s first autonomous electric cargo tractors fleet for air cargo terminal operations, and chiller retrofits.
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Menzies CNAC takes action for a cleaner coastline
Menzies CNAC organised a Beach Cleaning Day in November 2025 at Shui Hau Wan. Armed with gloves, bags, and plenty of enthusiasm, participants worked side by side to collect litter, sort recyclables, and help restore the beach to its natural beauty. Despite the chilly weather, everyone’s energy and teamwork shone through! These efforts not only enhanced the overall aesthetics of Shui Hau Wan but also provided valuable protection for the fragile marine ecosystem in the area, demonstrating Menzies CNAC’s commitment to sustainability and community responsibility. Looking ahead, the company will continue to organise activities to raise awareness of marine pollution and promote sustainable lifestyles.
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AAHK participated in the Annual Symposium 2026 of HKSAFC
As a member of Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition (HKSAFC) since 2024, AAHK participated in HKSAFC Annual Symposium 2026 hosted by Business Environment Council in February. The Symposium gathered governmental officials, industry leaders and experts to discuss important strategies for advancing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) adoption. At a panel discussion, AAHK shared research insights on SAF demand mechanisms, and offered insights into Hong Kong International Airport’s fuelling system and considerations for SAF blending.
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