International non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play a vital role in global aviation, complementing the work of governmental bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). They provide expertise, advocacy, and specialised services that enhance safety, efficiency, sustainability, and humanitarian support.Â
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) represents airlines worldwide, setting operational and safety standards. The Flight Safety Foundation (FSF) promotes accident prevention through research and training, while the International Federation of Airline Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) advocates for pilots’ safety and professional standards. Likewise, the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) represents controllers globally, ensuring safe and efficient air traffic management.
The Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO) works with air navigation service providers to modernise traffic systems, while the Aviation Environment Federation (AEF) campaigns for reduced emissions and noise. Humanitarian NGOs such as Air Serv International deliver aid and medical supplies to remote or crisis-affected regions. Importantly, Airports Council International (ACI) represents airports worldwide, promoting best practices in airport management, safety, and customer service.
Together, these NGOs strengthen aviation by promoting safety, sustainability, and humanitarian support, ensuring that air transport continues to serve both industry and society responsibly.
On 18 February 2026 in Brussels, ACI EUROPE strongly rejected IATA’s demand that Spanish airport operator AENA reduce its charges by 22 percent between 2027 and 2031 while maintaining a €13 billion investment plan. The airport association argued that such expectations are unrealistic and economically unsound.
ACI highlighted that airline charges at AENA airports have already fallen by seven percent (7%) in nominal terms over the past decade, equating to a 36 percent real-term decrease. Meanwhile, Spanish airfares have risen by 40 percent since 2019, proving that reductions in airport charges do not benefit consumers but instead protect airline profits.
AENA’s proposed 3.8 percent annual increase in charges — equivalent to 43 cents per passenger — is presented as fair and necessary to offset inflation and fund critical infrastructure upgrades. ACI also challenged IATA’s traffic growth forecast of 3.6 percent annually, noting AENA’s more cautious 1.3 percent projection reflects capacity limits, supply chain disruptions, and structural market changes.
Director General Olivier Jankovec stressed that airports are entering an unprecedented investment cycle vital for Europe’s competitiveness. He accused IATA of ignoring financial realities and pursuing a self-serving agenda, emphasising that airports must be recognised as independent businesses rather than instruments of airline subsidisation.
As global aviation enters 2026, airports face both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges. Passenger traffic is forecast to reach 10.2 billion travellers in 2026, with demand projected to nearly double by the mid-2040s. This growth is driven largely by emerging markets but remains uneven across regions, requiring airports to adapt strategically. Against this backdrop, Justin Erbacci, director general of Airports Council International (ACI) World, outlines five priorities to guide airports through the next phase of transformation.
- Advocacy for airports worldwide
ACI aims to strengthen its voice in global aviation policy, ensuring airports are recognised as critical infrastructure for economic and social development. Advocacy will focus on securing investment, fair regulation, and recognition of airports’ role in sustainable growth.
- Environmental stewardship and net-zero progress
Sustainability is central. Airports must accelerate efforts toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions, investing in cleaner energy, sustainable operations, and partnerships that reduce aviation’s environmental footprint. This priority aligns with global climate goals and rising public expectations for greener travel.
- Data, intelligence, and innovation leadership
ACI plans to expand its authority in data and innovation. By harnessing advanced analytics, digital tools, and emerging technologies, airports can improve efficiency, resilience, and passenger experience. Reliable intelligence will also help airports anticipate demand shifts and operational challenges.
- Excellence in programmes and services
Delivering trusted programmes that enhance airport operations, safety, and customer service remains essential. ACI will continue to provide training, certification, and benchmarking services to help airports achieve excellence and maintain global standards.
- Governance and leadership strengthening
Finally, ACI emphasises the importance of strong governance and leadership. Airports must cultivate effective management practices, transparent decision-making, and collaborative leadership to navigate complex regulatory, financial, and operational landscapes.
Together, these priorities reflect a holistic vision: airports must be advocates, innovators, environmental stewards, service leaders, and strong institutions. By pursuing these goals, airports can meet rising demand, support sustainable growth, and deliver seamless, safe, and inclusive travel experiences.
In essence, ACI’s roadmap for 2026 positions airports not just as transport hubs, but as engines of economic progress, sustainability champions, and leaders in innovation.
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Ekelem Airhihen, an accredited mediator, has an MBA from the Lagos Business School. He is a member, ACI Airport Non-aeronautical Revenue Activities Committee; his interests are in market research, customer experience and performance measurement, negotiation, strategy and data and business analytics. He can be reached on ekyair@yahoo.com and +2348023125396 (WhatsApp only).
