Rarotonga International Airport has achieved Level 2 Airport Carbon Accreditation, marking an important milestone in its commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible airport operations.

The internationally recognised Airport Carbon Accreditation programme provides a framework for airports to measure, manage, and reduce their carbon emissions. Owned and governed by ACI EUROPE, in close cooperation with all the ACI regions and with support of ACI World, the programme is independently verified and recognised globally across the aviation sector.

Achieving Level 2 accreditation confirms that Rarotonga International Airport has progressed beyond measuring its carbon footprint and is now demonstrating measurable, independently verified reductions in emissions through active carbon management initiatives.

To achieve this accreditation, the airport implemented a range of measures designed to strengthen its environmental performance, including:

• Establishing comprehensive carbon management procedures and monitoring systems
• Tracking fuel and energy consumption to support emissions reduction targets
• Embedding climate accountability within senior management responsibilities
• Delivering emissions awareness training for staff
• Demonstrating verified reductions in its carbon footprint

The airport has also identified and progressed several initiatives that will support ongoing emissions reductions, including the introduction of hybrid vehicles, a multi-year LED lighting replacement programme, feasibility assessments for solar-powered runway lighting, and the installation of rooftop solar photovoltaic systems to offset electricity consumption.

This achievement reflects the Airport Authority Cook Islands’ commitment to balancing environmental responsibility with the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the country’s aviation infrastructure. It also reinforces the airport’s role as a responsible gateway to the Cook Islands and demonstrates how sustainability considerations are being integrated into day-to-day operations and long-term planning.

Rarotonga International Airport now joins a select group of airports across the Pacific region that have achieved Level 2 Airport Carbon Accreditation. Several airports throughout Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji have also progressed through the programme, reflecting a growing commitment across the region to reducing aviation-related emissions and improving environmental performance.

With Level 2 accreditation now secured, the airport will continue building on this progress through ongoing monitoring, staff engagement, and the implementation of further emissions
reduction initiatives. The accreditation provides a strong foundation for continued environmental improvement while supporting the airport’s long-term operational resilience.

Looking ahead, Airport Authority Cook Islands will extend this momentum across its network, with the Airport Carbon Accreditation process for Aitutaki Airport scheduled to commence in July 2026. Building on the progress achieved at Rarotonga International Airport, this next step reflects AACI’s ongoing commitment to strengthening carbon management and delivering measurable environmental outcomes across both airports.