Planes, Plans, and Progress: Net Zero and Beyond

We cannot wait to see everyone in San Antonio this March! The 2025 Planning and Environmental Track at the AAAE/ACC Airport Planning, Design, and Construction Symposium will have five sessions that cover the most dynamic and exciting trends in airport planning and environmental regulation. Each track will feature speakers and panelists who are leaders in their respective fields. You will leave the sessions with a better understanding of what is going on, and what is about to happen.

The past year has seen the industry achieve impressive milestones related to airport expansion, resiliency and preparedness, and progress towards net zero carbon emissions. Many markets have met or exceeded 2019 air traffic activity levels, and the industry is curious and optimistic about what lies ahead. The Planning and Environmental track includes these great sessions:

Planning for Resilient Infrastructure
Wednesday, March 12, 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m.

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.

Looking Beyond the 20-year Master Plan Horizon
Wednesday, March 12, 2:45–4 p.m.

Gain insights on how to tackle uncertainties and “what-ifs” in master planning, led by a panel of experts who will discuss their approach to looking beyond the planning horizon.

Incorporating Equitable Design
Thursday, March 13, 10:15–11:30 a.m.

Take part of the conversation that will include questions like “What should a more equitable airport design look like?” and “What is the industry's role in making this dream a reality?”

Providing the Latest on Environmental Policy
Thursday, March 13, 1:45–3 p.m.

Learn about changes to environmental policy and procedure brought about by the 2024 FAA Reauthorization, including Section 743. This session will also cover key challenges and opportunities every environmental practitioner should be aware of. 

Covering the Best in Airport Net Zero Strategy and Practice 
Thursday, March 13, 3:45–5 p.m.

Dive deep into how airports throughout the country are juggling capital development, operational decarbonization, and limited funding with limited human capital and rapidly changing landscapes as they transition to clean and resilient energy supply.