Aviation industry aims for greener flights

Saudi Arabia’s airspace is expanding rapidly. The country’s Vision 2030 plan and a series of major events are attracting millions of visitors, making air traffic management a key priority. Saudi Air Navigation Services (SANS), the state-owned provider, oversees safe and sustainable flight operations across more than two million square kilometers.

Sustainability as a board-level mandate

For SANS, sustainability is more than a requirement. It became a core corporate focus in 2024, moving the issue to the boardroom. A three-tier governance structure now guides its efforts: a Sustainability Steering Committee sets the direction, an ESG Committee handles implementation, and a Sustainability Community involves employees at all levels.

The framework follows international standards. Financial reporting uses IFRS, risk management aligns with ISO 31000, and this year’s first environmental, social, and governance report was prepared under the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards. The aim is to provide investors and regulators with transparent, comparable data on the company’s performance.

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A new investment program formalizes this approach. It evaluates projects not only on financial returns but also on their impact on safety, efficiency, and the environment. The initiative has already delivered strong results, outperforming targets and allowing SANS to fund sustainability efforts internally without borrowing.

Operational efficiency and local procurement

Efficiency improvements extend beyond flight operations. SANS has strengthened its operational performance through continued improvements in the invoicing cycle, timely supplier payment practices, and supplier satisfaction.

Procurement policies also reflect this focus. SANS prioritizes local suppliers to support Saudi manufacturers and keep economic benefits within the country. A Local Content Programme has expanded the supplier network, improved visibility into required categories, and created opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses. In 2025, the supply chain team earned the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Procurement Excellence Award, recognizing its structured negotiations and cost savings.

Supplier feedback is a key performance measure. A formal survey gathers input on challenges and improvements, while a classification system in the ERP helps manage relationships. The effort has increased the number of registered suppliers, boosting competition and resilience.

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These changes reflect a belief that sustainability and financial strength go hand in hand. Strong governance ensures safety. Efficient operations cut emissions. Careful financial management funds the technology and infrastructure needed for both. For SANS, this approach is now standard practice, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s growing ambitions in aviation.

Most air navigation providers still treat sustainability as a compliance issue rather than a strategic priority. If SANS’s model spreads, it could push the industry to adapt or risk falling behind in a sector with tight margins and increasing public scrutiny. The company is betting that the future of aviation will not only grow but also become more sustainable.

Local initiatives, like those by pharmacy associations in Indonesia, show how targeted programs can strengthen community ties. SANS’s work demonstrates a similar commitment at a national scale.