Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu has renewed its Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) Level 3 – Optimization, according to the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT). This accreditation, managed by Airports Council International, is recognized as a global standard for carbon management in airports. The Level 3 designation acknowledges airports that have made substantial progress in reducing emissions under their direct control.
HDOT reported that it works closely with partners including airlines, ground handlers, and tenants on joint carbon reduction projects. The airport’s emissions inventory is independently verified by a third party as part of the ACA program requirements.
For the second year in a row, HNL has surpassed its goal of cutting airport-controlled carbon emissions per passenger by 50% from 2009 levels—a target initially set for 2030. This achievement comes five years ahead of schedule. Efforts contributing to this reduction include pilot programs for autonomous electric shuttle buses, replacing existing fleet vehicles with electric vehicles (EVs), and installing additional EV charging stations throughout operational areas.
“Hawai‘i’s airports are demonstrating what electrified transportation leadership looks like,” said HDOT Director Ed Sniffen. “Through collaborative efforts with our airport partners, the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is demonstrating how electric infrastructure can support ground and air operations, while remaining affordable and reducing emissions.”
The airport continues to implement sustainability measures such as energy efficiency upgrades across terminals and increasing the use of solar panels. There is also ongoing collaboration with federal agencies, airlines, and concessionaires to reduce emissions from all facets of airport activity. According to HDOT, these initiatives help save costs, enhance operational efficiency, and decrease air pollution for travelers, employees, and nearby communities while supporting environmental protection goals.
HDOT reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net-zero airport-controlled carbon emissions by 2045. This aligns with Hawai‘i’s statewide Zero Emissions Clean Economy Target established under HRS §225P-5.
