Engineering/Airside Track Highlights
As an engineer, I’m not sure what I like more, designing something or watching that design come to life through construction. There’s a great sense of satisfaction derived from both milestones, and that is what I want to give you at this year’s Airport Planning, Design, & Construction Symposium!
I’m beyond excited to invite you to the 2026 Symposium held in Indianapolis, Indiana. As a huge basketball fan, I am thrilled to host you in one of the country’s biggest sports hubs as your Engineering/Airside Track Host. Along with my colleague, Schuyler Lamoureux, we are developing engaging and transformative sessions aimed at raising your knowledge and highlighting the latest industry trends in both design and construction. Our sessions will cover creative design and construction techniques that have been implemented to solve the unique challenges that often come with airport infrastructure projects. So, ditch the dress shoes, slip on your favorite pair of high tops and meet us in Indianapolis for a championship-worthy track.
As your host and co-host, we are pleased to announce the following topics in this year’s agenda.
No Second Option: Creative Construction at Single Runway Airports
Join us to learn about the challenges associated with construction at airports with only one runway. The session will focus on creative planning, sustainable design, strategic funding, and rigorous engineering execution needed to solve the high-stakes operational challenge and offering a replicable framework for airports nationwide.
Proving the Concept: Regional General Aviation to Commercial Service from the Ground Up
Panelists will unpack the often intimidating and complicated processes that are involved as an airport grows beyond General Aviation. This session offers a compelling model for municipalities seeking innovative and realistic paths to growth.
Modular Construction: Moving Megastructures Across a Live Airfield
As structures become larger, new techniques are being developed to speed up construction and minimize disruptions to airport operations. Panelists will unpack the complex coordination that allows megastructures to arrive on site up to 75% complete, including fire protection, ductwork, and electrical systems. Learn how the teams engineer precise interfaces within strict tolerances, navigate taxiways with self-propelled modular transporters, and maintain system integrity throughout the move.
Keeping the World Moving: Overnight Runway Rehabilitation at Busy Airports
Learn how engineers and contractors work together to navigate the tight construction windows that are often seen at the world’s busiest runways. Together they must balance constructability with operational impacts to deliver a successful project. The session will examine how stakeholder engagement and precise construction planning lead to overall success.
Engineering Hot Topics
This session will provide an overview of the latest changes to the aviation industry as it relates to FAA design criteria, materials, and construction techniques. We’ll go over recent and upcoming changes to key FAA Advisory Circulars (AC) so that you and your team can be well informed and ready for those when they come. We’ll also discuss FAA programs/initiatives that are ongoing across the US—and how they could impact your airport.
On behalf of ACC and AAAE, and the 2026 Engineering/Airside Track, we look forward to seeing you in March!
Wilbur J. Mathurin, P.E.
Engineering/Airside Track Host
Southeast Aviation Team Lead
Hoyle, Tanner & Associates, Inc.
Schuyler Lamoureux, C.M.
Young Professional Engineering/Airside Track Host
Airport Planner
Hoyle, Tanner & Associates, Inc.
