New Delhi: Hubballi Airport in Karnataka has secured the prestigious Platinum Recognition, the highest accolade in the 2025 Green Airports Recognition program by Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East. The award, announced at the ACI Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in New Delhi on April 16, celebrates the airport’s groundbreaking strides in sustainable energy under the category for airports handling fewer than 6 million passengers annually. Rajesh Nilkanth Shinde, Executive Director (Technical) at the Airports Authority of India (AAI), accepted the honor on behalf of AAI Chairman.
At the heart of this achievement is Hubballi Airport’s 8 MW solar power plant, launched in December 2022. A trailblazer in India’s aviation sector, the facility powers not only Hubballi but also Belagavi and Mysuru airports, with plans to support new terminals across Karnataka. Generating over 11 million units of clean energy each year, the plant is projected to cut carbon emissions by 215,000 tonnes over its lifetime. This initiative reflects AAI’s broader commitment to eco-friendly operations and positions India as a leader in sustainable aviation infrastructure.
The Platinum Recognition highlights AAI’s dedication to environmental responsibility, blending innovation with a vision for net-zero carbon emissions. By prioritizing renewable energy and green practices, Hubballi Airport sets a benchmark for sustainable development in the global aviation industry.
BI Bureau
