Fundamentals of Aviation Sustainability

Certification Programme

Description

This programme introduces the core principles, terminology, and global frameworks that define sustainability within civil aviation. Learners explore the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability and examine how these dimensions influence aviation operations, regulatory approaches, and long-term planning. The course also reviews the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their relevance to aviation.
Interactive, media-rich elements help learners build literacy in sustainability concepts and understand how these ideas support decision-making across the sector. No previous knowledge of sustainability is required, making this an accessible starting point for all aviation professionals.


Goal

This programme aims to build foundational literacy in aviation sustainability. This course aims to provide learners with: 

  • A clear understanding of fundamental sustainability concepts and terminology 
  • Insight into how environmental, social, and economic factors influence aviation operations 
  • An understanding of aviation’s relationship to global sustainable development efforts 
  • An appreciation of how ICAO and the international aviation community are advancing a sustainable future for air transport 

Learning Objectives

• Define sustainability. 

• Describe common sustainability frameworks. 

• Differentiate between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). 

• Outline how sustainability is related to aviation. 

• Identify the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how they intersect with aviation operations. 


Structure

The course is modular: 11 micro-credentials that may be taken independently or stacked toward a full certificate.

Includes interactive multimedia lessons, case studies, and applied exercises.

Directly complements the Fundamentals of International Aviation programme, enabling the possibility of bundled offerings (e.g., Airports [from Fundamentals of International Aviation] + Airport Sustainability [from this newly proposed Programme]).

Supports ICAO’s NGAP and sustainability priorities, positioning the workforce for long-term resilience.


Target Population

Primary Target Population

  • Youth entering aviation professions (aligned with NGAP priorities) seeking foundational sustainability literacy.
  • Early-career aviation professionals who are engaging with sustainability for the first time.

Secondary Target Population

  • Mid-career aviation managers and leaders seeking to integrate sustainability concepts into operations and policy.
  • Government, regulatory, and NGO staff working with the aviation sector on sustainability issues.
  • Professionals from related sectors (e.g., energy, finance, media, supply chain) interfacing with aviation sustainability initiatives.

Programme Courses

Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-1E
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Governance
Aviation Sustainability – Governance
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-2E
Prerequisite: Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Aircraft
Aviation Sustainability – Aircraft
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-3E
Prerequisite: Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Airlines
Aviation Sustainability – Airlines
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-4E
Prerequisite: Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – General Aviation
Aviation Sustainability – General Aviation
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-5E
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Global Air Navigation
Aviation Sustainability – Global Air Navigation
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-6E
Prerequisite: Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Airports
Aviation Sustainability – Airports
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-7E
Prerequisite: Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Environment
Aviation Sustainability – Environment
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-8E
Prerequisite: Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Security
Aviation Sustainability – Security
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-9E
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Safety
Aviation Sustainability – Safety
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-10E
Prerequisite: Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Elective
Details
Aviation Sustainability – Aviation Professionals
Aviation Sustainability – Aviation Professionals
PTP/AVM/121/FAS/042-11E
Prerequisite: Aviation Sustainability – Introduction to Aviation Sustainability
Elective
Details
Degree: Certification
Language: English
Duration: 20 Hours