Airport Planning, Design, & Construction Symposium

7 - 8 a.m.

7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

8 - 8:45 a.m.

8:45 - 10 a.m.

Sponsored by: Jacobs

10 - 11 a.m.

10 - 11 a.m.

11 a.m. -12:15 p.m.

• Planning/Environmental Track: Resilient Infrastructure in a Changing World (Track Sponsored by: C&S Companies, TransSolutions, WSP)
  A climate resilient airport system is one that plans, prepares, and implements adaptation strategies for addressing the challenges that climate change and severe weather bring. Airports are taking steps to address climate hazard risks through the preparation of Climate Adaptation Action Plans and/or Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plans. In this session, the audience will understand the key considerations of developing these comprehensive climate adaptation plans and learn about innovative tools to assess, prioritize, and manage adaptation strategies to inform decision-making and protect airport assets.
  
  
• Terminal/Landside Track: Revolutionizing Baggage Handling: Planning-Modernizing-Optimizing - Trends and Innovations (Track Sponsored by: Accenture, Miller Dunwiddie)
  Baggage systems are a prime target for improvement at airports worldwide. With three-quarters of North American airports planning upgrades within the next five years, this panel of experts will explore the latest trends in BHS planning. Topics include the use of virtual modeling, Augmented reality, and AI to assist passenger a more seamless transfer. We'll discuss evolving project delivery methods that blend planning, engineering, procurement, and installation, ensuring uninterrupted airport operations during construction. The panel will also highlight innovations such as automation, advanced baggage tracking, and the introduction of cross-belt sorters to the US market. Additionally, we'll delve into the role of predictive analytics (PA) in maintaining critical systems like baggage handling, ensuring smoother operations and enhanced efficiency. Join us to gain insights into how these advancements are shaping the future of baggage handling systems and driving the aviation industry forward.
  
  
• Engineering/Airside Track: Sustainable Airfields: From Planning to Pavements (Track Sponsored by: Arora Engineers, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.)
  - Hear about the many ways sustainable practices can be implemented without sacrificing pavement performance or longevity.
  - Understand how airports are making real changes to reduce environmental impacts.
  - Learn about the best practices for sustainability in airfield pavements.
  
  
• PM/CM Track: Constructing the Future:  Project Delivery Success in Major Airport Programs (Track Sponsored by: Geometrics Engineering, HNTB Corporation, Sundt Construction, Inc.)
  
  
• Innovation Track: AAAE ACT’s Collaborative Approach to Airport Innovation (Track Sponsored by: Introba, Transoft Solutions)
  ACT is AAAE’s comprehensive innovation program, uniting 53 U.S. airports and numerous industry partners to identify, test, and scale transformative solutions for the aviation industry. As airports adapt to the rapidly evolving landscape of aviation technology, collaboration remains essential in driving innovation forward. This session will feature ACT members sharing updates on their groundbreaking projects, demonstrating how stakeholders are leveraging ACT’s insights and collaborative framework to stay ahead of industry challenges and shape the future of aviation.

12:15 - 2 p.m.

2 - 2:45 p.m.

2:45 - 4 p.m.

• Planning/Environmental Track: Adaptive Master Planning - What's on the Horizon and What's Beyond (Track Sponsored by: C&S Companies, TransSolutions, WSP)
  Master Plans are intended to work within a set planning horizon, usually a 20-year outlook. Prudent planning requires thinking beyond that mark to make sure a plan doesn’t dead-end with no more room to grow after those 20 years are up. Balancing the what-ifs and looking beyond the 20-years is a massive challenge – if overdone, land can be locked up in anticipation for its “ultimate” use – if under done, an airport can develop into a puzzle of parts that don’t fit.  Don’t let this happen to you!! -- Come gain insight on how to tackle this planning conundrum and join our panel of experts who will discuss their approach to looking beyond the planning horizon. The panelists will each share a case study and then openly discuss those projects and their lessons learned. 
  
  
• Terminal/Landside Track: Budgeting for Terminal Development. A Roadmap to Successful Financial Planning (Track Sponsored by: Accenture, Miller Dunwiddie)
  Traditional terminal costs are evolving, and historic component percentages used in estimating terminal costs have evolved as well.  Technology costs are rising as a percentage of overall project costs, as are MEP and sustainability components.  The session will present a budgeting primer as well as case studies of actual final costs for recently completed terminals, with as much granularity to the components as possible. This session will also attempt to understand contingencies to help guide budget development estimates.  Information should be relevant to terminal development teams as well as Finance and Airport Leadership teams.
  
  
• Engineering/Airside Track: Planning for Resiliency: Hoping for the Best, Planning for the Worst (Track Sponsored by: Arora Engineers, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.)
  • Understand the SFO airport infrastructure resilience framework
  • Recognize gaps and know strategies in achieving airport infrastructure resilience
  • Identify seismic hazards and related vulnerabilities of critical airport infrastructure
  
  
• PM/CM Track: Terminal Transformations: How Airline Owners are Changing the Game (Track Sponsored by: Geometrics Engineering, HNTB Corporation, Sundt Construction, Inc.)
  Airlines are increasingly taking control of their terminal development projects to better align with their specific operational needs, budgets, and timelines. In this panel discussion, executives from three of the largest U.S. airlines—Delta, Southwest, and United—will share insights on how they manage and execute large-scale terminal development programs to meet the evolving demands of their airline and airport stakeholders.
  
  
• Innovation Track: Hyper-Personalization: Optimizing the Passenger Experience across Traveler Needs & Preferences (Track Sponsored by: Introba, Transoft Solutions)
  • Future-proofing passenger experience with Data-driven insights - reality of the future of aviation customers (Gen X, Gen Z, Gen Alpha and beyond); A curb-to-destination seamless experience single source; Embrace technology and automation
  • Challenges for creating insightful passenger experience
  • Celebrating passenger experience breakthroughs in airports 
  

4 - 5:30 p.m.

7:15 - 8:15 a.m.

7 a.m. - 5 p.m.

8:15 - 9:45 a.m.

Sponsored by: Mead & Hunt

9:45 - 10:15 a.m.

10:15 - 11:30 a.m.

• Planning/Environmental Track: Equitable Design - A Practical, Pragmatic Approach (Track Sponsored by: C&S Companies, TransSolutions, WSP)
  When much of our public infrastructure was planned, designed, and constructed, it was often done so without the voice, perspective and consideration for the diverse needs and wide-ranging experiences of all of its users. Because of this historical blind spot, many legacy airport facilities may deliver sub-par or even negative experiences to marginalized groups, including (but not limited to) women, gender non-conforming people, neurodiverse people, or people with visible or invisible disabilities. At its core, the session will strive to address two questions: what should a more equitable airport design look like? And what is the industry's role in making this dream a reality? 

• Terminal/Landside Track: World Class Airports: Integrating Technology and Design for Success (Track Sponsored by: Accenture, Miller Dunwiddie)
  US cities are rapidly modernizing their aging infrastructure, with a focus on building world-class airports. This session will explore what it means to be a "world-class airport" in different urban environments. Our panel will discuss approaches for "global cities" in the US, emphasizing strategies for continuous improvement and adaptability to industry changes and constraints.  The session will review lessons learned from international precedents, examining applicability and adaptability to enhance passenger experience while accommodating growth. Insights from airports, airlines, and designers will highlight innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

  The session will also cover the innovative use of technology in design and construction to enhance passenger experience. Join us to gain insights into how these advancements are shaping the future of airport infrastructure and driving the aviation industry forward.

• Engineering/Airside Track: Hot Topics (Track Sponsored by: Arora Engineers, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.)

• PM/CM Track: Modular Construction: Unlocking Next-Level Efficiency through Advanced Aviation Construction Techniques (Track Sponsored by: Geometrics Engineering, HNTB Corporation, Sundt Construction, Inc.)
  Airport Owners face a unique challenge to implement large Capital Improvement Programs while limiting the impact to their stakeholders and Airline Partners.  This session aims to provide valuable insights into why Modular Construction and advanced construction techniques can play a vital role in expediting construction while also limiting airport impacts. The group of panelists will be composed of Airport Owners from around the country with recent experience in leveraging Modular Construction. Panelists will discuss the “business case” for leveraging these construction techniques and discuss their experiences and best practices at the leading edge of these innovative solutions.
  

• Innovation Track: Practical Mobility: Where and when AAM fits into an Airport Ecosystem (Track Sponsored by: Introba, Transoft Solutions)

  • Discuss the updates to vertiport design through engineering brief 105a

  • Identify synergies of AAM preparation and supporting all vertical lift aircraft at airports

  • Learn best practices in AAM planning at airports and how to predict timelines for capital investment

11:30 a.m. -1 p.m.

1 - 1:45 p.m.

1:45 - 3 p.m.

• Planning/Environmental Track: Environmental Policy and the 2024 FAA Reauthorization (Track Sponsored by: C&S Companies, TransSolutions, WSP)
  This workshop will focus on key changes to FAA environmental policy brought about by the 2024 reauthorization and include discussion of items that are receiving attention at the national level. Topics will include Section 743 of the Reauthorization Act, and other hot topics related to environmental assessments and impact statements. 
  
  
• Terminal/Landside Track: Small Changes, Big Impact: Enhancing Airport Efficiency and Passenger Experience (Track Sponsored by: Accenture, Miller Dunwiddie)
  Airports are seeking to improve efficiency and enhance passenger experience and revenue, but they may not have the funds for a major terminal overhaul or reconstruction. Current trends in terminal design focus on creating an experiential experience, such as incorporating artwork, digital wayfinding, and high-end finishes. While these are worthwhile efforts, these developments can be costly to construct and maintain and may not align with the airport's long-term goals.
  
  There are many ways to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency through smaller-scale changes. This panel will explore how to identify specific passenger needs and some cost-effective, simple solutions to improve their facilities and optimize revenue and passenger experience. We will also discuss specific examples used at different airports that, despite seeming small, have had substantial impacts on the airport's efficiency and enhanced customer experience.
  
  
• Engineering/Airside Track: Construction on the Airfield: Lessons Learned from the Trenches (Track Sponsored by: Arora Engineers, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.)
  • Hear about how different approaches for various types of airfield projects can all lead to success during construction
  • Discuss different perspectives on balancing constructability and operational impacts.
  • Learn about new tools or approaches that may benefit your projects.
  
  
• PM/CM Track: Turbulence Free Construction: Harmonizing Stakeholders in Airfield Development (Track Sponsored by: Geometrics Engineering, HNTB Corporation, Sundt Construction, Inc.)
  
  
• Innovation Track: True Airport Intelligence: Unlocking the Power of AI and Digital Transformation (Track Sponsored by: Introba, Transoft Solutions)
  • AI in Airports - Update since last year's Generative AI announcement
  • Challenges and limitations that come along with the implementation of AI in planning and design
  • Real-world applications of AI being used successfully at airports to improve efficiency

3 - 3:45 p.m.

3:45 - 5 p.m.

• Planning/Environmental Track: The Journey to Net Zero in the Airport Industry (Track Sponsored by: C&S Companies, TransSolutions, WSP)
  Airports are increasingly committing to net zero emissions targets, driven by a combination of regulatory mandates, environmental concerns, and the pursuit of sustainable operations. The journey net zero operations for airports involves a multi-lateral strategy balancing on-going capital development, operational decarbonization, and short-windowed funding opportunities. Take a deeper dive into how Airports throughout the country are juggling these priorities with limited human capital and rapidly changing landscapes as they transition to clean and resilient energy supply.
  
  
• Terminal/Landside Track: The Future of Cargo: Optimizing Facilities at Constrained Airports (Track Sponsored by: Accenture, Miller Dunwiddie)
  This session will delve into the complexities of planning and constructing resilient air cargo facilities to boost capacity at some of the busiest airports. Attendees will gain valuable insights into growth opportunities for cargo at airports where airfield access to real estate is limited. Our panelists will share strategic approaches to cargo facility design and optimization of available space, ensuring that every inch is utilized effectively.
  
  Industry experts will present innovative solutions to overcome logistical challenges and maximize efficiency within constrained environments. The session will feature case studies of successful expansions and collaborative efforts between airport authorities, airlines, and logistics providers. Additionally, panelists will highlight best practices for maintaining compliance with international standards while achieving sustainable development goals. This educational session promises to equip attendees with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the future of air cargo facilities successfully
  
  
• Engineering/Airside Track: With a Little Help from My (Technology) Friends: Utilizing Technology and Tools to Help Improve Designs (Track Sponsored by: Arora Engineers, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.)
  • Discover how airports across the country and internationally are using cutting-edge innovation to deliverables and the traveling public
  • Learn how emerging technology can help monitor and manage your airport's assets
  • Find out about new tools that can help your engineering design and construction
  
  
• PM/CM Track: Mastering Staff Augmentation: Strategies for Delivering Effective Aviation Capital Programs  (Track Sponsored by: Geometrics Engineering, HNTB Corporation, Sundt Construction, Inc.)
  Looking to boost your team with the right expertise while keeping costs in check? Staff augmentation is more than just adding "warm bodies"—it’s about building a cohesive team with the right mix of experience and resources. Join our expert panel as we tackle how both owners and consultants can successfully integrate staff augmentation, create strong team cultures, and ensure long-term success. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce!
  
  
• Innovation Track: Revenue Generation: Creative Ways to Make Money in Airports (Track Sponsored by: Introba, Transoft Solutions)
  • Holistic analysis of airport assets for monetization
  • Navigating legal and regulatory constraints of existing funding streams (e.g. AIP)
  • Examples from commercial sector
  
  

8 - 9 a.m.

9:00 - 10:00 a.m.

10 - 10:15 a.m.

Sponsored by: TKH Security | Park Assist

10:15 - 11:15 a.m.

The new administration in Washington is creating seismic shifts in federal policy priorities that directly affect airport sponsors and private companies. These Executive Orders and directives are creating a minefield of uncertainty with regards to how airport projects will be funded and delivered. Be sure to participate in this interactive Town Hall listening session where airports and private companies can discuss changes that are underway in their organizations and ways ACC/AAAE can assist.

11:15 - 11:30 a.m.

11:15 a.m. - 12 p.m.

1 - 1:30 p.m.

1:30 - 4 p.m.

Buses will load at 1 pm Friday, March 14 and depart shortly afterwards to San Antonio International Airport. The tour will last approximately 2.5 hours.

Attendees must remain with the tour the entire time. Please be sure your travel plans will allow. There will be a drop-off at the terminal following the tour for those catching flights.