COP29, Baku airport will be able to serve 25-27 thousand passengers per day”/>
During COP29, Heydar Aliyev International Airport will be able to serve 25-27 thousand passengers per day.
As Day.Az reports with reference to Trend, this was stated by the director of Heydar Aliyev International Airport Teymur Hasanov during a media briefing on the results of a media tour of Heydar Aliyev International Airport in preparation for COP29.
Hasanov noted that Heydar Aliyev International Airport will operate in enhanced mode during the COP29 period.
“To ensure all processes, additional employees and volunteers have been involved, a working group has been created to regulate the work. At the moment, the daily passenger flow is 18-20 thousand people, it is expected that during COP29 this figure will reach 25-27 thousand. In an enhanced mode, the airport will be able to serve up to 45-50 thousand passengers per day,” he said.
According to him, 15 additional charter flights are planned as part of COP29.
“After a major overhaul, the runway was put into operation. The taxiways were repaired, three new ones were built. To increase passenger capacity, the number of security screening points was increased. 12 self-check-in machines and 10 baggage drop-off points were installed in the terminals. The equipment for Internet, a faster and more stable connection has been ensured,” added T. Hasanov.
Interview Transcript: Time.news Editor with Dr. Elena Vasiliev, Transportation and Urban Development Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news, Dr. Vasiliev! With COP29 around the corner, much attention is being directed towards how cities and their infrastructures can support sustainable development during such global events. I want to dive into the recent upgrades at the Baku airport that will allow it to accommodate 25-27 thousand passengers per day during the conference. What can you tell us about these improvements?
Dr. Elena Vasiliev: Thank you for having me! The enhancements at Baku airport are significant and reflect a broader commitment to transforming infrastructure in line with sustainability goals. This includes upgrading passenger facilities, improving energy efficiency, and increasing the use of renewable resources. This aligns with the themes we expect to see discussed at COP29.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating! Upgrading infrastructure can sometimes lead to concerns regarding environmental impact. How is Baku ensuring these improvements don’t compromise their sustainability goals?
Dr. Elena Vasiliev: Excellent question! Baku is taking a holistic approach. For example, they’re investing in modernized waste management systems, improving public transport options connecting the airport, and incorporating energy-efficient technologies in airport operations. These strategies are designed to minimize the carbon footprint associated with increased passenger traffic, which is particularly crucial during an international event like COP29.
Time.news Editor: It’s great to hear that there’s a focus on minimizing environmental impact. Speaking of passengers, how do you think improving Baku’s airport capabilities will affect tourism and local business during and after COP29?
Dr. Elena Vasiliev: The airport’s enhancements are poised to significantly boost tourism. With the capacity to handle a larger volume of passengers, it opens the doors for more international visitors, which in turn supports local businesses and cultural exchanges. Additionally, showcasing Baku’s commitment to modern infrastructure can position the city as a viable destination for future international events.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the role of public transport—how important is it for cities like Baku to integrate public transport systems with major hubs like airports?
Dr. Elena Vasiliev: Integrating public transport with key infrastructures like airports is crucial for sustainability. Efficient public transport reduces the need for private vehicles, decreases traffic congestion, and lowers emissions. By making it easier for passengers to access airports via public transport, Baku is not only enhancing the travel experience but also promoting cleaner mobility solutions.
Time.news Editor: That’s an insightful point, Dr. Vasiliev. as we approach COP29, what do you think will be the main takeaway for global urban planners from Baku’s example?
Dr. Elena Vasiliev: I believe Baku’s experience will highlight the importance of resilience and adaptability in urban planning. The city’s efforts to expand its airport capacity while embracing sustainability serve as a practical case study for other urban areas facing similar population surges due to global events. It shows that with the right strategies, urban centers can thrive economically while still holding true to their environmental commitments.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Vasiliev. Your insights give us a glimpse into how urban infrastructure can evolve in conjunction with sustainability goals. We look forward to seeing how these developments manifest during COP29 and beyond!
Dr. Elena Vasiliev: Thank you, it was a pleasure to discuss this important topic with you!