Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has once again gained international acclaim, winning a prestigious award at the Green Airports Recognition 2025 event organized by Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific & Middle East. This latest accolade highlights CIAL's continuous commitment to environmental stewardship within the aviation sector.

Award for Terrain-Based Solar Project
The award specifically celebrates CIAL’s innovative terrain-based solar power project, located at Payyannur in Kannur district. Recognized under the 6–15 million passengers per annum category, the project demonstrates CIAL’s commitment to sustainability by utilizing the natural landscape for solar energy production without altering the land's natural gradient.

Leading the Way in Sustainable Aviation
Through this achievement, CIAL joins an elite group of airports across the Asia-Pacific and West Asia regions known for pioneering environmentally responsible practices. ACI’s Green Airports Recognition programme aims to honour airports that implement impactful green initiatives, promoting a more sustainable future for global aviation infrastructure.

Award Ceremony and Acknowledgements
S. Suhas, Managing Director of CIAL, received the award from ACI President S.G.K. Kishore during a ceremony held in New Delhi. Expressing gratitude, Suhas emphasized CIAL’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and its proactive efforts in boosting green energy capabilities alongside expanding airport infrastructure.

Innovation at the Heart of CIAL’s Growth
Commissioned in 2022, the terrain-based solar plant spans 35 acres and represents a significant innovation in solar power installation by preserving the area’s original geographical features. This approach further strengthens CIAL’s position as a global leader in sustainable airport operations.

Solar Power Leadership Continues
As the world's first airport to run entirely on solar energy, CIAL continues to scale its green energy initiatives. Currently, the airport boasts a total installed solar capacity of 50 megawatts, a testament to its focus on aligning growth with environmental responsibility.

Global Recognition for Excellence
In its official communication, ACI International praised CIAL’s project, noting that it was among the most outstanding entries received for the 2024 edition of the Green Airports Recognition programme. The recognition cements CIAL’s reputation as a trailblazer in integrating sustainable practices into aviation infrastructure.