Evaluating airports' Sustainable Development Goals by using multi-criteria decision making methodologies

BACKGROUND: The recent growth of the aviation industry, which poses significant environmental challenges, has heightened the pressure on the sustainability of airports. Airport sustainability requires a holistic approach that encompasses economic, social, environmental, and operational aspects. In this regard, the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Agenda provides a roadmap for the aviation industry. However, despite recognizing the importance of SDGs, aviation authorities and airports often fail to effectively integrate them into their activities and annual reports. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the significance of SDGs for airports and select the airport that prioritizes SDGs the most using Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methodologies. METHODS: This study introduces a novel approach that integrates Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) and Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) methods, which are MCDM techniques, to enhance airport sustainability. The SWARA method is employed to evaluate and assign weights to the SDGs in the context of airports. RESULTS: SDG 8 holds the highest level of significance among the goals concerning airports, while SDG 14 falls outside the scope of airport sustainability aspects. Then, five international airports that have been designated as green airports by aviation authorities and assessment organizations are selected, and the optimal alternative is determined using the WASPAS method, considering the weights obtained through SWARA. CONCLUSION: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is the top choice due to its successful implementations and reports aligning with the SDGs.