aviation construction

Aviation Construction Innovation: Building Better Experiences That Keep Passengers Moving

Construction at airports is often complex and can significantly impact travelers and employees. However, it does not have to.

Swinerton’s expertise crafts seamless experiences for travelers and airport personnel alike. Recognized among the top 20 aviation general contractors by Engineering News-Record (ENR) and Building Design + Construction (BD+C), our portfolio spans international hubs like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Hartsfield-Jackson (ALT) to regional facilities such as Long Beach Airport (LGB) and beyond. Our priority is to keep passengers moving by deeply understanding each airport’s unique air- and landside operations.

Setting New Standards in Airport Construction

In collaboration with our mass timber affiliate Timberlab, Swinerton played a crucial role in renovating Portland International Airport’s (PDX) main terminal, which features the world’s largest mass timber roof. This impressive structure, totaling 3.5 million board feet, features 80-foot-long glulam beams and 35,000 pieces of intricately fabricated lattice. Our dedicated project team led efforts on local sourcing, working closely with regional suppliers across 10 forests promoting local economic development and sustainable forestry practices.

The glulam beams reduced the embodied carbon footprint of the structure when compared to structural steel and saved millions of dollars on the project. Our prefabrication and erection strategy minimized the impact on the traveling public through the airport, which remained operational through construction.

At LAX, we designed and constructed the LAX Economy Parking Structure with Watry Design and Gensler, redefining convenience and accessibility for travelers and staff. This visionary project, boasting  4,300 parking stalls, transcends mere functionality with amenities like a meet-and-greet space, public restrooms and a dedicated pet relief area. Cutting-edge technology, including a parking guidance system, electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and drought-resistant landscaping, highlight the project’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Elevating Passenger Experience During Airport Construction

Navigating the intricate landscape of airport construction demands precision and foresight. Our adeptness in overcoming logistical challenges while adhering to stringent regulatory standards ensures minimal disruption to airport operations, even during peak travel seasons, setting higher standards in the industry.

At the Denver International Airport (DEN), Swinerton recently completed United Airlines’ $34 million Gates of the Future project, transforming 60 gates across Concourse B and the South Finger Regional Gates. This comprehensive renovation enhances the passenger experience through modern seating with integrated power outlets, ADA-compliant design elements exceeding accessibility requirements, enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity, self-service kiosks and dynamic queuing systems.

Working within the world’s sixth-busiest airport, we completed this complex renovation without a single flight delay or operational disruption. Through meticulous planning and overnight construction, our teams maintained continuous gate operations while delivering modern amenities that align with United’s vision for the future of air travel.

Similarly, at LGB, our multi-phased project to construct a new ticketing facility seamlessly integrates modern amenities with the airport’s 80-year-old historic terminal. This endeavor not only enhances passenger circulation but also  integrates the Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) facility, which allows the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to screen checked bags more efficiently, further streamlining the passenger travel experience.

Executing Complex Airport Renovations

At Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, our collaboration with Delta Air Lines to build a new Centerpoint Sky Club exemplifies the company’s prowess in executing complex renovations. From safely installing structural steel over a bustling terminal to crafting bespoke interiors with high-end finishes, Swinerton’s attention to detail ensures an unparalleled passenger experience.

“I am inspired by our relentless commitment to crafting seamless airport experiences,” says Carrie Shaeffer, Swinerton vice president and national director of aviation. “From redefining convenience to integrating modern amenities, airside and landside, our dedication to excellence ensures smooth journeys for passengers to their destinations and staff to navigate their day.”

Our portfolio highlights our dedication to ensuring that a passenger’s experience at the airport is positive while airport operations remain uninterrupted. As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation and expertise, we remain at the forefront of shaping the future of airport infrastructure, one visionary project at a time.

Connect with our team at the 2025 AAAE/ACC Airport Planning, Design, and Construction Symposium.