Expert Strategies for Airport Development: Insights from PSHIA 2025 Aviation Business Summit

At the PSHIA 2025 Aviation Business Summit, industry leaders gathered to discuss the complexities of designing and constructing projects at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. During the “Let’s Talk Design and Construction” panel, John Carricarte, Project Executive at The Weitz Company’s Aviation division, shared key insights into working with the City of Phoenix and Sky Harbor, focusing on collaboration, advanced planning, sustainability integration, and effectively managing airport expectations. 

Building for an Operational Airport 

During his remarks, John emphasized the unique challenges of working in an active airport environment, where construction teams must balance infrastructure improvements with maintaining smooth operations for travelers. He outlined the following items as keys to success when operating in active spaces: 

• Understanding Airport Values – Sky Harbor International Airport prioritizes passenger experience, and construction teams must align with those values to minimize disruptions and enhance traveler satisfaction. 

• Maintaining the Traveler’s Experience – From clear wayfinding to noise reduction strategies, every decision made on-site contributes to the overall airport experience. 

• Aligning with Airport Goals – Working hand-in-hand with Sky Harbor to identify key objectives—whether sustainability, efficiency, or brand representation—ensures that projects contribute to the airport’s long-term success. 

• Executing Multiple Plans – Airports are dynamic environments where flexibility is essential. By planning ahead and preparing for processes such as timing and costs associated with badging, insurance requirements, site logistics and how to communicate clearly and often, teams can seamlessly carry out the project needs 

• Supporting the Sky Harbor Brand – Beyond delivering quality projects, John highlighted the importance of representing Sky Harbor’s brand values throughout the construction process. “Our team, stakeholders, and trade partners all represent the airport and its values each day when we are on-site. We are ambassadors for the airport,” he shared. 

Aviation Phenomenal Champion of the Year- The Weitz Company 

In addition to the panel, the 2025 Aviation Business Summit also held a brief awards ceremony during the lunch program. During the program, The Weitz Company received the 2025 Aviation Phenomenal Champion of the Year award.

“They’ve been a stellar business partner through this entire process [PSHIA Terminal 4 baggage handling systems upgrades project], standing ready to provide aviation solutions for the project that meets not only our needs, but the improvements that will actually support the needs of our very important customers, our airlines.” 

Chad Makovsky, City of Phoenix Director of Aviation Services

This recognition underscores Weitz’s commitment to delivering aviation solutions that align with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s vision for operational excellence and enhanced passenger experiences.