As we mark World Environment Day throughout June, sustainability is becoming an increasingly urgent issue for the global aviation industry. With environmental concerns rising and governments pushing for cleaner, greener alternatives, sustainability is now a central focus for aviation companies, professionals, and stakeholders alike. It is no longer a niche area of expertise, but a foundational aspect that every aviation professional must understand and act upon.

According to Marie Owens, Senior Vice President of Sustainability & Chief Economist at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), sustainability is “a very existential issue for our industry and for the world in its approach to our industry.” This statement underscores the importance of sustainability in aviation and highlights the urgency of action as the industry grapples with rising environmental pressures.

The aviation sector has long been aware of its environmental impact, but the scale of that impact—and the responsibility to address it—has grown significantly in recent years. Governments worldwide have set ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and the aviation sector is no exception. The European Union’s aviation emissions trading system (EU ETS), the United States’ climate commitments, and similar initiatives from other nations highlight the growing regulatory pressure on the industry to reduce carbon footprints.

Governments have also taken steps to encourage greener practices by providing funding and support for research into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), electric aircraft technologies, and more efficient air traffic management systems. The UK, for instance, recently launched its Green Aviation Strategy, which includes a roadmap for net-zero emissions by 2050. These actions reflect an undeniable truth: sustainability is not optional but essential to the future of aviation.

In this context, the role of aviation professionals is more critical than ever. Professionals across all levels of the industry—from engineers and pilots to policymakers and sustainability officers—must work collectively to advance the sector’s sustainability agenda.

As sustainability becomes increasingly central to the aviation industry, governments and aviation organizations are emphasizing the need for specialized training to equip professionals with the skills necessary for this transformation. The IATA recognizes that moving toward sustainability requires not only investment in technologies and infrastructure but also in people. Professionals with expertise in sustainable practices are in high demand.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, has long advocated for environmental responsibility within aviation. In 2019, ICAO established the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which is a global market-based measure aimed at helping the sector offset its emissions. This initiative further underscores the growing need for professionals who are well-versed in sustainability principles, carbon offset programs, and green aviation technologies.

Training programs and courses designed to promote sustainability awareness and expertise are essential to help professionals keep pace with the evolving needs of the industry. Whether it’s understanding how to integrate sustainable aviation fuel into flight operations or navigating the regulatory landscape of carbon emissions trading, training will be crucial for professionals who want to remain competitive in the workforce.

As aviation faces growing demands to meet sustainability goals, professionals must adopt a proactive approach to ensure their skills align with industry needs. Below, we outline three key steps that aviation professionals can take to build a sustainable skill set and stay competitive in this rapidly evolving field.

1. Stay Informed About Global Regulations and Policies
Government policies and international agreements play a key role in shaping the aviation industry’s path toward sustainability. Professionals must stay up-to-date with regulatory developments, such as the EU’s Green Deal, ICAO’s CORSIA, and any region-specific initiatives. Understanding how these policies impact the aviation sector—and your specific role—will allow you to make informed decisions and ensure compliance.

Governments are also focusing on providing incentives and grants to support the transition to sustainable aviation. Familiarizing yourself with such programs can open doors to funding and innovation within your organization.

2. Invest in Specialized Training and Certification
Many governments and international organizations, including the IATA and ICAO, offer specialized training programs aimed at fostering sustainability expertise in aviation professionals. These courses can cover topics ranging from carbon emissions management to the implementation of sustainable aviation technologies.

Certifications such as the IATA Environmental Management for Aviation (EMA) and ICAO’s environmental courses can add significant value to your resume, proving your commitment to sustainability and boosting your career prospects. By enhancing your qualifications, you not only increase your value as a professional but also contribute to advancing the industry as a whole.

3. Foster Collaboration and Innovation
Sustainability in aviation requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders. Governments, airlines, manufacturers, regulators, and academics must work together to achieve the sector’s environmental goals. As an aviation professional, you can contribute by actively engaging with sustainability initiatives and collaborating with others in the field.

Look for opportunities to partner with organizations focused on sustainability or join forums and working groups that drive innovation in green aviation. By sharing knowledge and ideas, you will contribute to the collective effort to build a more sustainable aviation future.

Sustainability in aviation is no longer a choice but a necessity. With the environmental impacts of the aviation industry being scrutinized more than ever, governments and organizations worldwide are pushing for greener practices, and professionals must keep pace with these developments. By focusing on continuous training, staying informed about global policies, and actively fostering collaboration, aviation professionals can help build a sustainable future for the industry. As we celebrate World Environment Day, let’s reflect on the collective responsibility we share in ensuring that aviation continues to take flight toward a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.

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