Rajiv Gandhi International Airport achieves Level 5 of Airport Carbon Accreditation

April 22, 2025

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in India is leading the way in airport climate action, having achieved Level 5, the highest level of Airport Carbon Accreditation, becoming the third airport in the country to reach this milestone.

Operated by GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited, the airport implemented a wide range of initiatives to reach Level 5, targeting emissions across all three scopes. It has deployed electric vehicles (EV), adopted biofuels, installed EV charging stations, and introduced low-GWP refrigerants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The airport has shifted to 100% renewable energy, generated in part by a 10 MWp on-site solar power plant and supplemented by green power procurement. Energy-efficient systems have been incorporated into lighting, HVAC, and other airport operations to optimise power use.

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has collaborated with airlines and ground handling agencies to encourage low-emission practices, such as single-engine taxiing, electric ground support equipment (GSE), and the use of pre-conditioned air for aircraft on stands. The airport has also operationalised a GSE tunnel and is actively exploring the future use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels.

Further measures contributing to this achievement include the development of energy-efficient green buildings—such as the LEED-certified passenger terminal—the creation of greenbelt areas that serve as natural carbon sinks, absorbing approximately 700 tonnes of CO₂ per year, and the replacement of conventional vehicles with solar and electric alternatives. Smart energy management systems, LED retrofits, and HVAC upgrades have been deployed to enhance operational efficiency.

Congratulating Rajiv Gandhi International Airport on this achievement, Stefano Baronci, Director General, ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, said: “Indian airports are leading the way in environmental sustainability. The achievements of Hyderabad International Airport further establish India’s pioneering role in decarbonisation. These successes result from a long-term vision and the dedicated efforts of their teams and industry partners. We hope these milestones inspire other airports in our region to embrace sustainability and implement initiatives for a more environmentally responsible aviation industry. ACI APAC & MID remains committed to supporting our members in developing their roadmaps to achieve net-zero targets.”

Learn more about sustainability at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport here