The COP29 climate change conference in Baku, Azerbaijan saw a significant increase in private jet traffic, with double the number of private planes landing at the airport compared to last year. This has resulted in criticism from officials, delegates, and environmental activists, who accuse the participants of hypocrisy.
Private jets are considered more polluting than commercial airplanes and trains, with per passenger emissions being five to fourteen times higher. The event’s location, in an oil-rich capital, has also been criticized for its contribution to the climate crisis. However, some experts defend the use of private jets, as it is more convenient for high-ranking individuals.