5 takeaways from the 2026 AAAE/ACC Symposium – and what it means for your next project
At this year’s AAAE/ACC Airport Planning, Design, & Construction Symposium, one theme cut through the noise: Airports are being forced to make bigger, faster decisions in an environment defined by uncertainty. As our Business Development Specialist, Andrew Skidmore, observed throughout the conference, innovation is accelerating, expectations are rising, and risk is becoming harder to predict. Meanwhile, projects aren’t slowing down.
Read on for Andrew’s key observations from the conference, what they signal for the future of airport development, and how we’re supporting clients through it.
1. Innovation is on track to enhance the airport experience
A consistent focus throughout the conference was on how airports are using, and planning to use, technology to enhance the passenger experience. These innovations and their implementation have the potential to change how we interact with and view air travel.
From energy and resiliency solutions like solar to improvements in signage, accessibility, and digital air traffic control towers, innovation is happening at every level. Even smaller enhancements, like improved queueing systems and wayfinding, are being implemented to improve how people move through airports. What stands out is not just the technology itself, but the willingness to test new ideas – indicating a shift toward more dynamic, experience-driven environments.
2. Risk is driving more strategic decision-making
Risk dominated conversations throughout the conference. With geopolitical instability, tariffs, funding uncertainty, and long lead times impacting projects, airport owners are navigating a more complex landscape. Budget volatility and schedule disruptions are real concerns, and even well-planned projects can be affected by external factors.
As a result, clients are placing greater emphasis on proactive risk management. That translates to leaders seeking stronger forecasting, clearer assumptions, and more reliable ways to anticipate challenges before they impact delivery.
3. Owners are becoming more proactive
While challenges like funding pressures, maintenance, and evolving technology aren’t new, the response to them is changing. As these issues persist, airport owners have become more proficient at developing systems to track and address them earlier, allowing for more informed decisions and better long-term outcomes. In general, we’re seeing a more proactive approach to project delivery centered on planning and continuous improvement.
4. Growth demands smarter solutions
Airports continue to face increasing demand across both passenger travel and cargo operations, creating pressure to expand and improve infrastructure. At the same time, expectations are rising. Airports must generate revenue, attract airlines, deliver an iconic design, and operate more efficiently, all within tight budgets and timelines.
As consultants, we’re committed to helping our clients meet these heightened demands by offering a more integrated approach – one where design, cost, scheduling, and execution are aligned from the start.
5. Relationships still matter
In a conference with thousands of attendees, it was clear that meaningful connections come from being genuine.
Rather than trying to meet everyone, focusing on real conversations builds stronger, more lasting relationships. Through all the noise, lights, excitement (and exhaustion) of a conference, I find that being genuine is the most powerful way to connect with people. That same principle extends beyond conferences, especially in an industry increasingly shaped by automation.
Despite rapid advances in technology, the human element remains essential. Airports are complex projects built by people, for people. While machines can improve efficiency, they can’t replace the confidence that comes from working with experienced professionals who understand the nuances of a project and can respond in real time.
What this means for Connico’s clients
As risk increases and projects grow more complex, our clients want clarity and assurance before making consequential choices. Connico continues to deliver estimates, scheduling, and field services that help airport owners navigate today’s uncertainty. By tracking market trends, analyzing risk, communicating with our clients, and developing thoughtful assumptions, our team enables sharper decision-making.
Backed by a dedication to quality, responsiveness, and client advocacy, this approach helps Connico guide clients with confidence as they plan for the future.
If you didn’t get a chance to connect at the symposium, reach out to Andrew Skidmore to continue the conversation and explore how Connico can support your next project.
