Lilshira
Airport Partner Carbon Recognition programme launched at COP31
Airports Council International has launched the Airport Partner Carbon Recognition voluntary programme at COP31 in Turkey. The initiative starts immediately and targets airport service providers worldwide, adding a new layer to existing carbon accreditation efforts.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Introduces a voluntary recognition scheme for airport service providers to manage emissions
- Timing
- Effective from the launch at COP31 with no set future date
- Who is affected
- Airport retailers, food and beverage operators, ground handling firms and other airport service companies
The details
- Announced by
- Airports Council International (ACI)
- Previous rule
- Only the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme existed, recognising airports themselves but not external service providers.
- New rule
- The Airport Partner Carbon Recognition programme now voluntarily recognises service providers that measure, manage and reduce Scope 1, Scope 2 and selected Scope 3 emissions.
Launch and purpose
ACI unveiled the Airport Partner Carbon Recognition programme during a COP31 side event in the Turkey Pavilion. The launch aims to broaden carbon management beyond airport operators to include the businesses that operate within airport facilities.
- Voluntary framework for service providers
- Complementary to existing Airport Carbon Accreditation
Scope and participation
The programme covers emissions directly generated by participating companies (Scope 1), the energy they purchase (Scope 2) and selected indirect emissions (Scope 3) linked to their activities. Companies are encouraged to quantify their carbon footprints, set management processes and implement reduction measures.
- Applies to retail, food & beverage, aviation technology and ground services
- Supports airports in addressing Scope 3 emissions from external partners
Initial recognitions and Turkish context
The first organisations awarded the recognition include BFA Antalya Havalimanları Yiyecek ve İçecek Hizmetleri A.Ş., ATU Antalya Mağaza İşletmeciliği A.Ş., Bradford Swissport Limited, SITA, Joramco and Dnata, representing operations at Antalya, Heathrow, Budapest and Amman airports. The event also highlighted Turkish airports’ progress in the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, with several achieving Level 4+ status.
- 45 Turkish airports currently hold accreditation
- Antalya Airport reached Level 4+, İGA Istanbul Airport Level 4
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- No change to passenger travel schedules or airport services.
- Existing flight bookings remain unaffected by the new programme.
Cost and documents
- The programme does not introduce any new fees for passengers.
- No additional travel documents are required.
What you need to do
- Travelers do not need to take any specific action at this time.
- Monitor airport communications for any future service adjustments.
Who this affects
-
Airport service providers
The programme recognises companies that operate retail, food, beverage, technology and ground services within airports.
What to do Participating firms may apply for recognition and must measure and manage their emissions.
-
Airport operators
Operators can engage recognised partners to address Scope 3 emissions linked to external services.
What to do Operators may incorporate recognised partners into their carbon management strategies.
-
Turkish accredited airports
The launch highlighted the achievements of Turkish airports within the existing accreditation system.
What to do These airports continue to pursue higher accreditation levels while collaborating with recognised service providers.
Frequently asked questions
What is Airport Partner Carbon Recognition?
It is a voluntary programme launched by ACI that recognises airport service providers who measure, manage and reduce their Scope 1, Scope 2 and selected Scope 3 emissions.
When does the Airport Partner Carbon Recognition programme start?
The programme became effective at its launch during the COP31 side event in Turkey and is available immediately to eligible service providers.
Who can apply for Airport Partner Carbon Recognition?
Any company operating within an airport—such as retail, food and beverage, ground handling or aviation technology firms—can apply if they commit to emissions measurement and reduction.
Does the new programme affect passenger ticket prices?
No, the programme does not impose any fees on passengers and does not directly influence ticket pricing or travel schedules.
How does Airport Partner Carbon Recognition relate to Airport Carbon Accreditation?
It complements the existing accreditation by extending carbon management to external service providers, while the original programme continues to certify airports themselves.
