Environmental Sustainability in the spotlight at the CANSO Global ATM Summit 2024 in Baku

The CANSO Global ATM Summit 2024 has started in Baku, Azerbaijan, hosted by Azeraeronavigation Air Traffic Management (AZANS) of Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC. The organisation’s 28th Annual General Meeting (AGM) will also take place in the city later this week.

From 11 – 13 June, global ATM leaders and CANSO Members will participate in discussions on key issues and important decisions for the future of the organisation. The theme of this year’s event is Environmental Sustainability and more specifically, combating climate change. Participants will be exchanging ideas on reducing carbon emissions, showcasing advanced ATM technologies, and enhancing air traffic management with the goal of having more environmentally friendly flights.

In his opening remarks, Simon Hocquard, CANSO Director General, stated: “As we convene in Azerbaijan we are reminded of the urgent need for global action and cooperation to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Azerbaijan has taken some significant strides towards environmental conservation. By tabling this important discussion here in Baku, we acknowledge the need for collaborative efforts across borders and industry to safeguard our planet’s ecosystems for future generations.”

“Hosting the CANSO ATM Summit 2024 and 28th AGM highlights Azerbaijan’s growing influence and leadership in the aviation industry. Additionally, it reflects our dedication to innovation, excellence, and active engagement in the efforts of international aviation organizations. I want to extend my thanks to CANSO’s management for their trust in us,” said Rashad Nabiyev, Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan.

Finally, Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan, COP29 President-Designate, added: “Let us use this event as a platform to exchange ideas, share best practices, and establish new collaborations. Together, the sector can address the global gas emissions and contribute significantly to our collective climate goals.”

The Global ATM Summit’s opening ceremony this morning in Baku featured remarks from notable attendees (in photo below), such as:

• Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan & COP29 President-Designate
• Simon Hocquard, CANSO Director General
• Rashad Nabiyev, Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan
• Samir Rzayev, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) President
• Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), who delivered a video message.