Palmerston North Airport upgrades to Level 4+

November 3, 2026

Reducing operational emissions by 85% since 2022, Palmerston North Airport in New Zealand has reached Level 4+ of Airport Carbon Accreditation, marking a significant milestone in its decarbonisation journey. The achievement reflects the airport’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, set long term emissions reduction targets aligned with the 1.5°C pathway and work with tenants and other stakeholders to address emissions across the wider airport community.

A key part of this progress is the airport’s commitment to long term emissions reduction. Palmerston North Airport has set an absolute emissions reduction target aligned with the IPCC 1.5°C pathway, to be achieved no later than 2050. It has also continued to procure Renewable Energy Certificates to support the management of its electricity related emissions.

Collaboration across the airport community is another important part of its approach. By working closely with tenants and other stakeholders, Palmerston North Airport is strengthening its understanding of emissions generated across the airport site and identifying opportunities to influence reductions beyond its own operations.

The airport is also incorporating sustainability into its infrastructure development. Construction of its new terminal began in 2025, with the project featuring locally manufactured laminated timber beams. Demolition works have also achieved an 88% diversion of materials from landfill, demonstrating efforts to reduce construction waste and make better use of resources.

Commenting on the achievement, Palmerston North Airport Chief Executive, David Lanham, said: “Achieving Level 4+ is a significant accomplishment and reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainability. Reducing our operational emissions by 85% since 2022 demonstrates that meaningful progress is possible when sustainability is embedded into everyday decision-making. This accreditation recognises the actions we are taking to reduce our emissions, our planning for future climate challenges, and our collaboration with partners across the airport community to support a lower-carbon future.”

Stefano Baronci, Director General, ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, said: “We congratulate Palmerston North Airport on achieving Level 4+ of the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. This significant milestone reflects the airport’s strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainable airport operations. Its achievement sets a positive example for regional airports and supports our industry’s collective vision of achieving net zero emissions.”

Discover more about sustainability at Palmerston North Airport here.