Destination STRzero

Flughafen Stuttgart GmbH has secured European Union funding to support further implementation of its STRzero carbon strategy, reinforcing its objective of reducing its own greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2040.

The airport is participating in the AGENDA consortium — Accelerating Green Energy iNfrastructure Deployment in European Airports — supported by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Through this initiative, Stuttgart Airport will invest in modern equipment at aircraft parking positions aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing emissions.

Ulrich Heppe, CEO of Stuttgart Airport, stated that the EU funding provides scope for targeted investment in low-emission technologies, particularly in economically challenging conditions, and supports phased implementation of the STRzero strategy.

PCA SYSTEM TO REDUCE GROUND EMISSIONS

Electrically powered pre-conditioned air at terminal stands

A central element of the project is the installation of an electrically powered pre-conditioned air (PCA) system at aircraft positions directly adjacent to the terminal. The system will allow aircraft to be air-conditioned externally during ground time, enabling auxiliary power units to be switched off.

According to the airport, this will reduce airlines’ kerosene consumption and lower noise levels, while improving working conditions for apron staff. Once implemented, Stuttgart Airport expects the measures to reduce emissions by approximately 1,500 tonnes of CO₂ per year.

In addition to the PCA installation, the funding will support the expansion of solar panels and the installation of battery storage facilities.

AGENDA CONSORTIUM AND FUNDING STRUCTURE

Multi-airport collaboration through 2028

Airports in Vienna, Milan, Cologne/Bonn, Graz, Košice and Stuttgart, together with EVIA AERO GmbH, are participating in the AGENDA consortium. The project is coordinated by ACI Europe and is scheduled for completion by September 2028.

Under the EU’s Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) programme, Stuttgart Airport will receive approximately €1.5 million in funding. Flughafen Stuttgart GmbH’s total investment in the project amounts to around €5 million.

Stuttgart Airport continues to position STRzero as a structured pathway towards operational decarbonisation, aligned with its stated ambition to be among Europe’s most sustainable airports.