The Airports Council International (ACI) World Annual General Assembly (WAGA) has approved critical resolutions on the transition to cleaner energy and cyber threats, reflecting airports’ priorities in constructing a sustainable and resilient aviation ecosystem.
Over 800 delegates attended the ACI EUROPE/ACI WORLD Annual General Assembly, Conference, and Exhibition in Barcelona, Spain, where the 33rd WAGA was held. The Resolutions were presented by the ACI World Governing Board, which is comprised of the world’s foremost airport CEOs.
Advancing SAF and bolstering ESG practises
Recognising the need for collective action to achieve the long-term objective of net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, the Resolution “Leading through cleaner energy transition and robust ESG practises” calls on the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and governments to collaborate with all financial institutions to facilitate access to green finance for aviation and to stimulate the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). It urges governments to provide the technical and economic support and regulatory framework necessary to support the energy transition in the aviation sector.
Airports are urged to consider implementing robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practises based on their unique circumstances, to collaborate with ACI in the development of the Airport ESG Global Framework, and to participate in global efforts to expedite the deployment of SAF.
Cybersecurity risks in aviation
Recognising that the aviation industry relies on interconnected systems and advanced technologies that may be vulnerable to increasing cyber threats, the Resolution “Affirming airport’s commitment to addressing the evolving cyber threats in aviation” acknowledges the actions already taken by airports and urges all aviation stakeholders to increase their awareness and mitigation measures in this area.
The Resolution urges governments, international organisations, and relevant stakeholders to utilise extant international frameworks and standards on information security and cybersecurity in the development of aviation cybersecurity frameworks, standards, and guidelines. In addition, it urges governments to implement the necessary measures to support the growth of a cybersecurity workforce with expertise in aviation.
The Riyadh Airports Company will host the WAGA in 2024.
Riyadh Airports Company was named the host of the ACI Asia-Pacific / ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition (WAGA) at the ACI EUROPE / ACI WORLD Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition Closing and Handover Ceremony. The 21-23 May 2024 event will take place in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and is expected to attract global and regional airport CEOs, regulators, and dignitaries.
Director General of ACI World Luis Felipe de Oliveira stated, “We are thrilled to join forces with ACI Asia-Pacific and Riyadh Airports Company to host WAGA 2024, the most important global gathering of airport leaders.” The region is home to the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets and leading airports that are lifting the bar for travellers and communities on all fronts. As we construct a resilient and sustainable aviation ecosystem, our continued engagement with the global airport community and its pertinent stakeholders remains the determining factor in achieving our industry’s global goals.”
Stefano Baronci, director general of ACI Asia-Pacific, stated, “It is indeed a moment of pride for us, as WAGA will be conducted in Riyadh next year. This is a significant gathering of aviation leaders from around the world, and an excellent forum for discussing current issues and opportunities in the aviation industry, as well as examining innovative strategies for long-term success. We look forward to welcoming aviation leaders from around the globe and ensuring that everyone has a memorable experience.”
Musad Aldaood, CEO of Riyadh Airports Company, stated, “It is an honour to proclaim that Riyadh will host the ACI Asia-Pacific / ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference, and Exhibition (WAGA) the following year. We are ecstatic to greet aviation leaders from around the world to create an unforgettable experience for all.” Moreover, he added, “This significant gathering of global aviation authorities is a prime venue for addressing current challenges and exploring opportunities in the aviation sector, as well as investigating forward-thinking and exploring innovative strategies for long-term success.”
Source- Travel biz