This course aims to help learners understand how airports contribute to aviation’s triple-bottom-line sustainability goals. Learners will: 

• Recognize airports as key drivers of local, regional, and global economies. 
• Explore social sustainability strategies within airport environments. 
• Identify environmental sustainability practices applicable to airport planning, construction, and operations. 

Course Description

This online course examines the central role airports play in advancing sustainability across the aviation industry. Participants explore the economic impact of airports on local and global economies, strategies to enhance social sustainability for workers and passengers, and approaches to minimizing environmental impacts through infrastructure design and operations. The course provides practical examples of how airports serve as sustainability hubs that balance economic development, community well-being, and environmental protection. Interactive case examples highlight how airports adopt best practices in energy use, stakeholder relations, and operational efficiency.

This course is included in the Aviation Sustainability online training programme and may also be taken individually. For a foundation in aviation sustainability concepts, learners are encouraged—but not required—to complete Aviation Sustainability: Introduction to Aviation Sustainability before beginning this course.

• Describe the economic impacts of aviation on the local and global economies. 

• Describe strategies to improve social sustainability at airports. 

• Describe strategies to address environmental sustainability at airports. 

Course Structure

1. Economic Impact of Airports

2. Social Sustainability at Airports

3. Environmental Sustainability Strategies for Airports

4. Airports as Integrated Sustainability Hubs

5. Final Exam

 Evaluation and certification

• Final Exam: 80% Grade mark/ 3 attempts 
• Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive ICAO’s e-Certificate. 

All aviation professionals seeking to develop a baseline understanding of sustainability as it applies to civil aviation, including airline, airport, and regulatory personnel, as well as professionals transitioning into aviation from other industries. No previous background or experience in sustainability is required.

Students, educators, consultants, and support-service providers who wish to understand sustainability principles within aviation operations.