Airport capital improvement projects are rarely simple. These projects require alignment across a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including airlines, airport management, tenants and regulatory agencies, and often active airport facilities where downtime is not an option. Against this backdrop, owners are prioritizing competitive costs, a reliable schedule and reduced operational disruption. Progressive design-build is uniquely positioned to deliver on these priorities.

Unlike traditional design-build projects, where the owner often hands over control once the design reaches only 15% to 30% completion, the progressive model follows a clearly defined two-phase process that keeps the owner actively engaged throughout design development. In Phase 1, the owner selects the design-builder based on qualifications and works collaboratively to shape the scope, advance the design to approximately 60% completion (or more) and establish a target schedule and cost. In phase 2 the parties finalize design and permitting and collect competitive bids for each scope of work to develop a final cost for construction. If needed, a procurement phase may be funded between these steps to secure equipment with a long lead time. This step-by-step engagement allows airport authorities to remain involved in decision-making and retain control over project scope and budget until they are ready to move forward with full execution.

The early collaboration among the design-builder, the owner and key stakeholders is especially valuable. With both engineering and construction acumen available from day one, the team can identify equipment with long-lead times, assess material price volatility and model schedule constraints tied to operational realities. Owners benefit from real-time market feedback on commodities, tariffs and lead times, which enables smarter capital planning and more effective risk mitigation. 

Airport environments are complex, high-risk settings. Phased construction is often essential, and every delay or misstep has potential ripple effects across terminals, runways, fueling systems and ground support operations. Progressive design-build helps mitigate those risks through comprehensive preconstruction planning.

During the early design phase, multidisciplinary teams engage in intensive planning workshops, such as charrettes, to align stakeholders on scope, schedule and performance expectations. These sessions help surface critical information early, including local permitting requirements, access restrictions, airfield operational constraints and jurisdictional regulations. That alignment creates a foundation for clearer decision-making and reduces the likelihood of disruptive late-stage changes.

When changes do arise, progressive design-build provides a flexible structure for incorporating them. Instead of triggering a costly change order process typical of traditional delivery models, progressive teams can quickly evaluate the cost and schedule implications, confer with the owner, and pivot as needed. The model supports transparency and rapid response, essential in environments where priorities and constraints may shift. 

In today’s market, with persistent supply chain challenges and uncertain tariffs, early equipment procurement can make or break a project timeline. Progressive design-build allows early release of critical work packages, such as generators needed for backup power, switchgear with long lead times and structural steel that often must be fabricated before other trades even mobilize. That sequencing flexibility can shave months off a schedule and allow airports to meet aggressive delivery goals without compromising quality.

In some cases, progressive design-build teams engage subcontractors early for complex systems such as HVAC or fueling infrastructure, especially when schedule requirements or project conditions make early input or prequalification more valuable than waiting for competitive bidding. These turnkey subcontracts allow for detailed coordination, streamlined procurement and faster mobilization. In aviation settings, where airside access, secure zones and active tenant operations complicate construction, this level of preparation is critical to maintain progress while minimizing disruption.

Successfully executing progressive design-build in the aviation industry requires more than a commitment to collaboration. It also requires the right team structure and qualifications. Experience is essential. Firms should demonstrate a proven track record of delivering comparable aviation projects using the progressive design-build delivery model. This includes knowledge and experience with specialized systems such as fueling and baggage handling, along with a strong understanding of regulatory requirements and permitting processes.

Local knowledge also is important. Authorities having jurisdiction and local building departments often have unique requirements or expectations. Firms with established relationships and past experience at the airport can navigate these nuances more efficiently, reducing permitting delays and prioritizing compliance. It is also important to work with subcontractors who have demonstrated airfield experience. Badge access procedures, safety protocols and secure logistics all present unique challenges that require prior familiarity with the operating environment.

Integrated firms with knowledge and experience in engineering, permitting, construction and commissioning all under one roof are particularly well suited for progressive design-build. Their unified structure eliminates the finger-pointing that can occur in multicontract arrangements. When issues arise, the owner has one accountable partner. This structure fosters trust and simplifies resolution, reducing administrative burden for airport authorities and increasing the likelihood of on-time, on-budget delivery. 

Aviation capital projects often span multiple operational and regulatory jurisdictions. Terminals, support facilities, fueling infrastructure and other systems are commonly governed by a mix of public and private entities. Progressive design-build supports alignment by structuring collaborative decision-making throughout the project life cycle. Owners, tenants, regulatory agencies and other stakeholders remain engaged and informed at each key milestone.

Progressive design-build is not a fit for every owner or every project. But for airport authorities and tenant operators seeking cost and schedule certainty, with the flexibility to respond to changing requirements, progressive design-build offers a strategic path forward. When backed by experienced teams with strong local ties, integrated capabilities and a commitment to transparency, it can deliver faster, more collaborative outcomes — without sacrificing control.

For capital improvement programs that require speed, schedule reliability and greater control over risk, progressive design-build offers a flexible and accountable path to delivery.