Transforming Airports for a Green Future: Seminar Summary

Hosted by Swedish Aviation Group (SAG) – 10th September 2024

On September 10 2024, approximately 40 aviation industry experts gathered for the Swedish Aviation Group’s seminar on “Transforming Airports for a Green Future.” The seminar brought together thought leaders from across the sector to explore innovative solutions that can drive sustainability, efficiency, and financial strength in the aviation industry. Through insightful presentations and discussions, the event underscored the pivotal role of airports as integrated transport hubs of the future.

Victoria Barrsäter from Transportföretagen set the tone by presenting a vision for airports as seamlessly connected transport hubs. She illustrated how AI animation and advanced technologies could enhance the future of airport operations, aligning with broader sustainability goals.

Swedavia highlighted the multifaceted nature of sustainability, emphasizing that environmental responsibility goes hand in hand with operational efficiency and financial resilience. The company also celebrated its achievement of receiving the highest level of ACI accreditation for four airports, including Stockholm-Arlanda, further solidifying its leadership in sustainable aviation.

Representatives from LFV shared their vision for more efficient “highways in the air,” underscoring the importance of saving time, reducing fuel consumption, and improving economic performance through optimized flight routes.

Meanwhile, Luleå University of Technology (LTU) showcased its ongoing research and innovation efforts to address the risks of Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), a crucial element in ensuring the safety of future aviation technology.

The Green Flight Academy highlighted the exciting potential for green airports, offering a glimpse into how sustainable practices could be integrated into the fabric of future aviation infrastructure.

IBG added to the discussion by demonstrating how efficient air traffic procedures could save both fuel and money, reinforcing the economic benefits of sustainable practices in aviation. In the context of future fuels, Norwegian emphasized the importance of investing in e-fuel production in Northern Norway, while currently focusing on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as a stepping stone. They pointed to ST1 and Preem as exemplary companies leading the way in sustainable fuel production.

Closing the seminar, Transportstyrelsen (TS) stressed the importance of embracing new technologies to meet the evolving demands of the industry. The session encouraged an open dialogue on how the aviation sector can adapt to become more efficient and forward-thinking.

The seminar provided a valuable platform for exchanging ideas, with speakers and attendees alike recognizing the need for innovation and collaboration to achieve a greener, more sustainable future for aviation.

About Swedish Aviation Group (SAG)

As the aviation business is facing challenges, today and in the future, SAG is offering an important knowledge sharing platform when it comes to new procedures, techniques and sustainable solutions.

The member companies of Swedish Aviation Group (SAG) have the ambition to cover the complete aviation industry with state-of-the-art solutions and services.

The main focuses for SAG today are to cover Airline and Helicopter operations, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) as well as Airport Development and Operation. With this said, we are of course, open to all companies who engage in the aviation business and are more than willing to open up for new focus areas.

Within Airline and Helicopter Operations you will find companies covering aircraft, helicopter and engine maintenance and overhaul. Other areas are Air Traffic Management, consultancy and training.

Within Airport development and operation, you will find companies engaged in services, consultancy as well as operations (Air Navigation and Airport) and in technical solutions/products.

The aim is, for both groups to identify business opportunities and to cooperate in attracting customers. Ultimately, to secure new contracts to a company or in partnership between several companies. The activities within each group can differ depending on current situation on the respective market as well as within the group.

Each of the two groups will form their agenda with activities as well as sharing activities between themselves.