Airport infrastructure programs increasingly involve interconnected terminal, roadway, utility and airfield improvements that require extensive coordination among owners, designers and construction teams. Delivering these projects requires contractors with experience in multiple construction disciplines, flexible project delivery capabilities and the ability to manage complex funding requirements.
Sundt Construction has identified four core capabilities for managing aviation infrastructure work: collaborative project delivery, federal grant planning, cross-market experience, and self-perform construction supported by established trade partner relationships.
Progressive design-build and construction manager at-risk delivery models allow airport authorities, designers and contractors to address design and construction challenges collaboratively. These approaches provide opportunities to evaluate alternatives and adjust project requirements as design advances.
Sundt was selected to provide progressive design-build services for the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority's Terminal 2 East Connector. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2027.
The two-level development will include an employee security checkpoint, landside concessions, airside security barriers and apron improvements. Plans also call for a secure pedestrian connection between terminals, two gate hold rooms and passenger boarding bridges.
Federal funding administration is another consideration for airport construction programs. Projects supported by Federal Aviation Administration grants require early coordination to identify eligible work scopes, establish cost allocations and align construction phasing with funding requirements.
Sundt's approach involves working with airport personnel and local FAA representatives to develop funding eligibility plans. These assessments can be refined as project designs, funding allocations and implementation schedules change.
Airport developments frequently combine vertical construction with extensive horizontal infrastructure, including electrical distribution, water systems, drainage, communications networks and roadway improvements.
Sundt's experience across multiple construction sectors supports coordination of these interconnected scopes. Its capabilities include utility installation, excavation, grading, structural concrete, structural steel and concrete paving.
The contractor is also working with Messer Construction through a joint venture on Nashville International Airport's CONRAC program. The progressive design-build project includes improvements to the airport's rental car complex, parking garage and roadway network, including Terminal Drive.
The program requires coordination across multiple construction elements, with self-perform capabilities supporting work sequencing and control over critical project activities.
Workforce availability also remains an important consideration for aviation construction. Sundt uses apprenticeship and training programs to develop craft professionals and maintain capacity for specialized construction activities.
For scopes handled by subcontractors, Sundt emphasizes coordination on safety, scheduling and building information modeling (BIM) to identify potential conflicts before they affect field operations.
Airport modernization requires construction teams capable of managing complex infrastructure, funding requirements and multiple trade packages within active transportation facilities. Contractors with integrated construction capabilities, workforce development programs and collaborative delivery experience can support airport owners in coordinating these requirements.
Sundt's projects in San Diego and Nashville demonstrate the range of work involved in airport improvements, from terminal connections and passenger facilities to rental car infrastructure, utilities and roadway systems.
Source: Sundt.
