Azerbaijan to host IATA aviation energy forum First for Caucasus

Azerbaijan will host the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Aviation Energy Forum for the first time in the Caucasus, with the event set to take place in Baku on May 13-15.

The announcement was made by Samir Rzayev, President of Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), who said the forum will bring together key global stakeholders in aviation to address the sector’s most pressing energy and sustainability challenges, Caliber.Az reports.

Supported by AZAL, the forum will focus on enhancing efficiency in the aviation industry, driving innovation, and advancing the sector’s collective goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

More than 550 participants have already registered for the event, including representatives from over 50 countries and more than 60 airlines.

“Azerbaijan and AZAL are proud to contribute to the global aviation agenda by hosting this forum, expanding international cooperation and strengthening our country’s role as a regional aviation hub,” Rzayev said.

To recall, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is the global trade association for airlines, representing over 340 member airlines that account for more than 80% of global air traffic. Established in 1945, IATA's mission is to represent, lead, and serve the airline industry by promoting safe, secure, and efficient air transport. ​

IATA plays a pivotal role in standardizing industry practices, advocating for airline interests, and facilitating training and certification programs. For instance, the National Aviation Academy in Baku, Azerbaijan, hosts an IATA-accredited training center, offering courses in areas such as air cargo, aviation security, and dangerous goods handling. ​

In collaboration with Azerbaijan's Azeraeronavigation (AZANS), IATA is developing a National Airspace Strategy to modernize air traffic management, enhance safety, and support sustainable aviation growth. ​

Globally, IATA advocates for the aviation industry's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, emphasizing the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels and improved airspace efficiency. ​

As of 2025, IATA forecasts a net profit of $36.6 billion for the airline industry, driven by robust travel demand and declining jet fuel prices, despite challenges like supply chain disruptions.

By Aghakazim Guliyev