SANS Achieves Level 2 Accreditation in CANSO’s GreenATM programme, marking a major milestone for Saudi Air Navigation Services in driving environmental sustainability and operational efficiency across the Kingdom’s airspace.
The aviation industry stands at a critical crossroads, where balancing global connectivity with environmental responsibility has never been more vital. As air traffic continues to expand, air navigation service providers (ANSPs) worldwide are stepping up to reduce their ecological footprint. A shining example of this dedication is unfolding in the Middle East, where a leading provider has reached a notable eco-friendly milestone. This achievement not only highlights a deep commitment to a greener future but also sets a benchmark for operational excellence and sustainable development across the global aviation community.
The Path to Sustainable Air Navigation
The global aviation sector is continuously transforming to embrace eco-friendly practices and lower carbon emissions. At the heart of this green transition is the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), which established its innovative GreenATM programme in 2022. This framework serves as a trusted global benchmark, designed to evaluate and guide ANSPs in enhancing their environmental performance through strategic operational efficiency. Consisting of five progressive levels, the programme measures how deeply sustainability is embedded into an organisation’s daily culture, core operations, and long-term corporate strategy.
Abdulaziz Alzaid, Chief Executive Officer of SANS, commented: “Achieving Level 2 accreditation in CANSO’s GreenATM programme marks a significant milestone in SANS’s sustainability journey, reflecting our continued commitment towards enabling more efficient and environmentally responsible future for air navigation services. This recognition underlines our ongoing efforts to advance operational excellence, drive innovation, and support sustainable aviation growth, while contributing to the Kingdom’s broader environmental and aviation ambitions through responsible and forward-looking practices.”
Highlighting Excellence in Airspace Efficiency
Reaching the second tier of this prestigious framework represents a significant leap forward in environmental maturity. Saudi Air Navigation Services successfully earned this distinction thanks to a leadership-driven approach and the seamless integration of sustainable principles into its core workflows. Auditors particularly praised the organisation’s exceptional performance within the Improved ATM category, which showcases tangible progress in airspace optimisation and emissions reduction. By fostering close coordination with industry stakeholders, the team has successfully streamlined flight routes, minimized fuel consumption, and optimized capacity through advanced operational methods.
Leadership Vision and Future Goals
Behind every major milestone are dedicated leaders who champion positive change for the industry and the planet. Abdulaziz Alzaid, Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, emphasized that this recognition marks a vital chapter in their ongoing sustainability journey. Furthermore, Simon Hocquard, President and CEO of CANSO, warmly congratulated the team, praising their hard work and determination to embed sustainability into everything they do. With this strong foundation firmly established, the organisation is already looking ahead, positioning itself to advance toward Level 3 accreditation in the coming years. To explore more about these industry developments, visit CANSO aviation insights and updates. For further details on national air navigation initiatives, check out the Official SANS portal.
Simon Hocquard, CANSO President and CEO, congratulated SANS on the achievement: “Reaching Level 2 in the GreenATM programme is a meaningful achievement that reflects the hard work and strategic focus SANS has invested in environmental performance. This milestone speaks to the organisation’s ambition and its determination to embed sustainability into everything it does. We congratulate SANS and look forward to seeing them build on this strong foundation. »
Frequently Asked Questions on SANS Achieves Level 2 Accreditation
It signifies that Saudi Air Navigation Services has successfully integrated advanced environmental management and operational efficiency into its core air traffic procedures.
Launched in 2022, it provides a comprehensive global benchmark to evaluate and guide ANSPs in improving their environmental performance across five progressive levels.
Auditors noted exceptionally strong performance in the Improved ATM category, reflecting meaningful progress in airspace optimisation, route efficiency, and emissions reduction.
SANS Achieves Level 2 Accreditation: Join the Conversation
The journey toward a greener, more sustainable aviation industry relies on continuous innovation, collaboration, and shared knowledge among global stakeholders. Celebrating these milestones encourages the entire sector to push boundaries and adopt forward-looking environmental practices.
We would love to hear your thoughts on this inspiring development. What are your views on how ANSPs can further reduce aviation emissions? Please share your opinions and join the conversation in the comments below!
