Progressive Design-Build in Aviation Construction: Building Smarter for the Future 

The Aviation industry is changing rapidly. Passenger volumes continue rising, technology evolves quickly, and airports face constant pressure to expand capacity without disrupting daily operations. Traditional delivery methods often struggle to keep up, creating delays, misalignment, and costly change orders. 

Progressive Design-Build (PDB) offers a more flexible and collaborative path forward. By bringing the design and construction teams together early, PDB supports real-time problem solving, clearer decision-making, and predictable cost and schedule outcomes. For Aviation construction projects where terminals stay active, baggage systems never stop, and safety is essential, this delivery model provides a major advantage. 

Why Progressive Design-Build Works for Aviation Construction 

Airports operate around the clock and require precise coordination. PDB gives owners the agility to adapt during design, incorporate evolving security and technology needs, and maintain operations throughout construction. 

PDB delivers value by: 

• Minimizing operational disruptions 
• Reducing change orders 
• Accelerating schedules with early work packages 
• Aligning stakeholders from day one 
• Adapting to regulatory and technology changes 

Terminal Expansions: Designed for Complexity Delivered with Flexibility 

Expanding a terminal is like working within a live environment. Airlines, TSA, concessions, and travelers all need continuity. PDB supports this by allowing design and construction to progress together while keeping operations moving. The following elements of PDB help ensure successful terminal projects: 

• Early team selection and shared goal setting 
• Progressive design development with constructability and cost input 
• Early-release packages for utilities, steel, BHS infrastructure, and core shell 
• GMP finalized once design reaches maturity 

Baggage Handling Systems: Critical Infrastructure Built Smarter 

Upgrading a baggage handling system (BHS) under an active terminal requires careful sequencing and coordination. Legacy conditions, TSA integration, and tight downtime windows make PDB a strong fit. PDB methods result in successful BHS projects by implementing the following: 

• Early formation of a team with BHS expertise 
• Detailed field surveys and scope definition 
• Progressive design that supports early construction 
• TSA requirements integrated throughout design 
• GMP established after risks are addressed 

Read more about our approach to baggage handling system projects here.

CONRAC Facilities: Designed for a Seamless Traveler Experience 

Consolidated Rent-A-Car (CONRAC) facilities involve multiple stakeholders and moving parts. PDB helps teams coordinate fleet needs, circulation flows, EV infrastructure, and tenant requirements. PDB helps to ensure: 

• Early alignment with rental car operators, transit agencies, and airport operations 
• Progressive development of site logistics, fueling and wash systems, and parking structures 
• Early-release packages for grading, utilities, vertical cores, and EV rough-ins 
• GMP set once major systems and branding elements are confirmed 

Read more about our approach to CONRAC projects here.

Hangars and Airfield Support Buildings: Built for Mission-Ready Operations 

Hangars, MRO facilities, Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) stations, and other airfield buildings require specialized systems, security compliance, and precise structural coordination. PDB helps teams plan effectively within secure airfield environments, in addition to the following: 

• Early engagement with airfield, tenant, and operations teams 
• Incremental design with detailed modeling of structural and MEP systems 
• Early packages for grading, apron paving, foundations, and utility extensions 
• GMP developed once configurations and fleet requirements are validated 

Read more about our approach to Hangar projects here.

Building The Future of Aviation Construction

Airports are vital connectors for communities and commerce. Progressive Design-Build empowers owners to modernize facilities with clarity, collaboration, and confidence. 

Overall, Progressive Design-Build delivers a number of key activities that help keep complex and technical aviation projects on time, on schedule, and mitigate disruptions to operations. When combined, this results in design flexibility, predictable budgets, and a faster speed to market thanks to early-release packages.  

The Weitz Company brings decades of experience in aviation construction, from terminals to baggage systems to CONRAC facilities. If you are planning your next airport initiative, our team is ready to help you build for the future with a smarter, more flexible delivery approach.

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