This course runs twice a year, in March and December. The March course is delivered face-to-face at Cranfield University and the December course is delivered online, offering the flexibility to study from a location convenient for you. Using our digital teaching platforms, the course will offer a mix of sessions from live lectures, group exercises and self-study. If you require more information regarding the online delivery of this programme, please do contact us.
 

With commitments to decarbonise by 2050, sustainability is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’ for aviation but a critical business function that touches virtually all aspects of the business. However, as a ‘hard to decarbonise’ sector, there is a risk that aviation will get left behind as other sectors progress along a path to net zero more rapidly. A fundamental understanding of the key topics and issues relating to sustainability represents a critical enabler of more pro-active engagement and better decision making in this complex and dynamic field. By empowering leaders and planners to make better more informed decisions, the course seeks to support the wider transition to net zero and a more sustainable future for air transport.

The course will provide learners with a fundamental understanding of the key topics, issues and opportunities relating to air transport sustainability. By the end of the programme, learners will have both an understanding of these topics but also an ability to evaluate how actions in their own day-to-day roles and context can collectively contribute towards wider sustainability targets.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • 19 - 20 Mar 2026
    • 30 Nov - 01 Dec 2026
  • Duration1.5 Days
  • LocationOnline
  • Cost

    £995

    Concessions available

Course structure

The course consists of short (50 minute) sessions covering key concepts, case studies and examples of best practice across a range of sustainability topics. Plenty of time is allocated in each session for questions and discussion.

What you will learn

A fundamental understanding of the key topics and issues relating to sustainability represents a critical enabler of more pro-active engagement and better decision making in this complex and dynamic field. 

By empowering leaders and planners to make better more informed decisions, and lead teams on the topic of sustainable aviation, the course seeks to support the wider transition to net zero and a more sustainable future for air transport

Course content

Day 1

Fundamentals of aviation sustainability

  • Climate change and global warming
  • Air transport environmental impacts
  • Global policies for sustainable aviation
  • The politics of aviation sustainability

Pathways to Net Zero aviation

  • Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF)
  • Aircraft technology
  • Hydrogen and zero emissions fuels
  • Operational measures
  • Market based measures, including CORSIA

Day 2

Airport and local community impacts

  • Air quality and noise
  • Sustainable airport operations
  • Airport energy, water and waste management

Non-CO2 impacts

  • Contrail effects and management
  • The role of NOx , Soot and other non-CO2 impacts

Timetable

The course consists of short (50 minute) sessions covering key concepts, case studies and examples of best practice across a range of sustainability topics. Plenty of time is allocated in each session for questions and discussion.

Who should attend

The course is aimed at, but not limited to;

Senior leaders - looking to develop or update their knowledge and understanding of sustainability in aviation.

Managers and innovators - those with responsibility for a team or business function in aviation looking to enhance knowledge and understanding of sustainable aviation issues and opportunities, and embed sustainability practices into their leadership activities.

Those moving into or starting a career in aviation- those looking for industry specific knowledge to help kick-start their move into aviation, or those seeking to further develop their skills and expertise.

Accreditation

Upon completion of the course you will be awarded a certificate awarded by the University and a digital badge for recognition in your professional networking platform.

Concessions

Discounts offered for multiple bookings.

How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Apply now

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.