AirAsia has been recognized as a leader in sustainable low-cost aviation, winning the Sustainability Awards 2025 from the leading global aviation website, AirlineRatings.com, in the low-cost airline category. This award highlights the airline's tangible commitment to environmental and sustainability efforts within the aviation industry.

The awards honor airlines that go beyond just making pledges like achieving net-zero emissions. They focus on real actions that create immediate change by reducing waste, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, and promoting sustainable innovation both in the air and on the ground.

AirAsia was praised for several key environmental initiatives. For example, the airline has eliminated all single-use packaging on flights, replacing it with biodegradable materials. It also implemented the "APU Off" project to reduce carbon emissions by cutting down the use of auxiliary power units while aircraft are on the ground. By digitising its flight planning system, the airline has saved over 3 million sheets of paper annually. Furthermore, AirAsia has joined the advisory board for Heart Aerospace to support the development of electric and hybrid-electric aircraft. Notably, beginning in 2025, AirAsia is disclosing carbon emissions data for each flight to raise environmental awareness among passengers.

Sharon Petersen, CEO of AirlineRatings.com, stated, “We are not just looking for similar pledges from airlines around the world; we want to see real actions that create immediate change. AirAsia has clearly demonstrated this commitment, from reducing plastic and fossil fuel reliance to comprehensive environmental management in both flight and ground operations. This sets a new standard for low-cost airlines worldwide to emulate.”

This recognition reinforces that AirAsia is not only an accessible low-cost carrier but also a regional leader in sustainability, ready to drive the aviation industry toward a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future.