Net-zero: where sustainability meets ambition,
it’s a pledge to craft a future where every structure nurtures our planet’s health and resilience.
With over three decades of experience in the aviation industry, Reena Rai is a seasoned leader who has left an indelible mark on the development and sustainable operations of airports across India. As the former Executive Director (Engineering/Technical) at the Airports Authority of India (AAI), she has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have not only enhanced airport infrastructure but also paved the way for a greener and more sustainable future.
Reena’s journey began in 1990 when she joined AAI after a stint as a lecturer in various engineering colleges. Her exceptional skills and expertise in electrical engineering, honed during her graduation from the prestigious Regional Engineering College (now NIT) in Rourkela, soon propelled her to the forefront of airport development projects.
Throughout her illustrious career, Reena has played pivotal roles in the planning, designing, operations, and maintenance of airport infrastructure, catering to the ever-evolving needs of the aviation industry. Her contributions span a wide range of areas, including airfield lighting systems, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), baggage handling systems, passenger boarding bridges, and solid waste management systems.
Reena’s expertise extends far beyond technical aspects, as she has also been instrumental in developing project reports, conducting cost-benefit analyses, and performing risk assessments for major airport projects. Her work has been instrumental in the development of world-class infrastructure at airports such as Patna, Bhubaneswar, Deoghar, Jharsuguda, Agartala, and Holangi, among others.
One of Reena’s most notable achievements is her role in conceptualizing and implementing the “No Frills” Airports under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS). This innovative approach, aimed at making air travel more affordable and accessible to tier 2 and tier 3 cities, has been widely acclaimed for its potential to drive socio-economic development in these regions.
However, Reena’s true passion lies in her unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. As the Head of Environment and Energy Management Cell at AAI, she has championed numerous green initiatives, including Carbon Mapping, Carbon Reduction Programs, and the development of a Carbon Management Plan to achieve the target of carbon neutrality. Her efforts have been instrumental in the integration of renewable energy sources, such as the installation of solar power plants at airports like Kolkata and Bhubaneswar.