Kazaeronavigatsia’s “Green Corridors” project from Kazakhstan was recognized for its pioneering contribution to sustainable air transport, ranking just behind Germany and the United States.
September 27
At the 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) held in Montréal, the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award honored outstanding projects advancing globalaviation sustainability.
Among the world’s top three initiatives, Kazaeronavigatsia’s “Green Corridors” project from Kazakhstan was recognized for its pioneering contribution to sustainable air transport, ranking just behind Germany and the United States.
The international competition brought together 52 countries, 84 projects, and 194 participants, reflecting the growing global focus on innovation in sustainable aviation.
Kazaeronavigatsia’s Green Corridors initiative represents the world’s first system of economic incentives encouraging airlines to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on international cargo flights — a remarkable achievement for Kazakhstan and an inspiring example for the SOCEA community.
The project’s main components include:
- Reduction of air navigation charges for airlines operating with SAF;
- Implementation of the Book & Claim mechanism for transparent SAF certification;
- Scientific modeling of contrail formation and CO₂ emissions;
- Launch of pilot routes in 2026, with further expansion planned thereafter.
“Kazaeronavigatsia’s recognition at the international level reflects our strategic focus on innovation and sustainability. We aim to transform Kazakhstan’s airspace into a green aviation bridge between Europe and Asia, where ecology and economy operate in harmony,” stated representatives of Kazaeronavigatsia.
The initiative delivers tangible benefits across multiple dimensions:
- Ecology: Up to 70–80% reduction in CO₂ emissions on SAF-enabled flights;
- Economy: Increased attractiveness of Kazakhstan’s airspace for international transit operations;
- Reputation: Strengthened positioning of Kazakhstan and Kazaeronavigatsia as leaders in aviation innovation.
The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award celebrates the world’s best achievements in aviation innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation. The 2025 award ceremony took place on 27 September 2025, during the official gala dinner of the ICAO Assembly.
This success by Kazakhstan’s air navigation service provider and SOCEA member Kazaeronavigatsia highlights the growing contribution of the region to the advancement of sustainable and innovative air navigation practices.