IATA Aviation Energy Forum lands in Azerbaijan with net-zero goals in focus

The Aviation Energy Forum (AEF) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has officially opened in Baku, supported by Azerbaijan’s leading carrier, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), which operates under the Azerbaijan Transport and Communications Holding (AZCON Holding).

According to AZAL’s press service, this major international event will take place from May 13 to 15, 2025, marking the first time it is being held in the Caucasus and the Caspian region, Caliber.Az reports.

The AEF serves as a pivotal industry platform for the global aviation fuel community, bringing together stakeholders to address energy challenges facing modern aviation and to foster international cooperation among airlines, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) suppliers, and other strategic IATA partners.

The forum also plays a crucial role in building partnerships aimed at achieving the aviation sector’s ambitious goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

In his opening address at the ceremony, President of Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC Samir Rzayev highlighted the significance of hosting one of the most important events in the international aviation fuel sector in the Azerbaijani capital:

“Hosting such a high-profile forum in Baku reflects the growing strategic importance of our country in the global aviation industry and in the ongoing energy transition. It also demonstrates Azerbaijan’s active engagement in shaping the sustainable aviation development agenda. Sustainable aviation fuel has been recognised as a critical element in the path to net-zero CO₂ emissions by 2050. We are proud that Baku is serving as a key platform for international collaboration. AZAL, for its part, remains firmly committed to supporting the decarbonization of aviation and will continue to develop its own sustainability agenda.”

The forum has brought together approximately 800 registered participants, including representatives from more than 60 countries and over 70 airlines. Throughout the three-day event, a wide range of panel discussions and sessions will be held, covering both technical and commercial topics. Participants will also have the chance to network in the exhibition zone, engage with sponsors, explore innovative solutions, and establish new business connections.

As the leading industry event for the global aviation fuel sector, the AEF is held exclusively by invitation for IATA members and its strategic fuel partners.

By Tamilla Hasanova