IATA to hold World Sustainability Symposium in Hong Kong

Hong Kong, 14th August: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced to hold its World Sustainability Symposium (WSS) in Asia for the first time. The third WSS will take place in Hong Kong, running from 21st to 22nd October 2025, hosted by Cathay Pacific.

WSS will gather leader from aviation, energy, finance, and policy to advance the industry’s commitment to achieving net zero CO2 emission by 2050. WSS will follow the 42nd International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly at which the industry will have advocated for stronger government policies to support aviation’s energy transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and the integrity of Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). It will also precede COP30 which is focusing on turning pledges into actions.

WSS will focus on removing hurdles standing in the way of expanding SAF production; attracting financing for the US$4.7 trillion cost of decarbonization; integrating emerging technology developments by existing players and start-ups; and increasing collaboration across the value chain.

Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, said, “We are at a crucial point. Airlines are fully committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. But we have not seen sufficient, timely action by policymakers, aerospace manufacturers, oil companies, or fuel producers to support this commitment. This event is an essential rallying call for all those who have a stake in air transport’s future to overcome any challenges in the way of accelerating the pace of this crucial energy transition.”