Within two years, Azerbaijan’s Alat Free Economic Zone will develop into a state-of-the art transit hub with an integrated logistics infrastructure that feeds into the Baku International Sea Trade Port, national railway and motorway networks, and a brand-new airport. Plans for the airport were unveiled at the recent COP29, where Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company and ICAO also signed a strategic agreement, committing to a green airport and cargo village. They plan to develop environmentally sustainable airport operations in compliance with national regulations, international environmental standards, and best practices, aiming for ICAO’s Green Airport certification. Going operational in 2026, the cargo airport will include 18 aircraft stands, a 4,000-meter runway, individual forwarder warehouses, state-of-the-art perishables airside facilities, and modern office buildings, alongside the usual required amenities and be constructed in such a way as to minimize environmental impact: integration of low-carbon technologies, advanced waste management systems, and sustainable energy solutions. The new airport will operate under the Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company, a registered entity established to advance Silk Way Group’s logistics and infrastructural initiatives in the region.
Nicolas Rallo, Regional Director for the ICAO Europe and North Atlantic Area, outlined: “ICAO’s collaborations with the Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone on the establishment of a green airport, reflects our shared commitment to advancing sustainable aviation infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and setting new standards for environmental responsibility in the region.”
Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Way Group, added: “We are proud to join forces with ICAO at such a significant forum as COP29, furthering our vision for a greener future in aviation.” The new cargo airport: “represents a significant milestone in the country’s history, signifying a shift towards new opportunities that will effectively address the increasing local and global demand for freight transport. This initiative not only bolsters our standing within the Middle Corridor but also opens up new avenues for growth, offering promising prospects for our business, as well as for our valued partners and investors.”
Jawad Dbila, CEO of Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company, stated that it would: “serve as a pillar of the Alat Free Economic Zone, transforming our vision for Azerbaijan’s logistics and transportation capabilities into reality. […] our focus is on integrating sustainable practices and advanced infrastructure to enhance connectivity, attract international partnerships, and reinforce Azerbaijan’s role as a transit logistics hub.”
