Recognition highlights Jacobs’ expertise across airport planning, design, digital innovation and operational readiness
Jacobs has been named the No. 1 airport design firm by Engineering News-Record (ENR) for the second consecutive year. The recognition highlights Jacobs’ work on complex airport infrastructure programs around the world.
Jacobs supports airport clients across the full project lifecycle. Its services range from strategy, airport planning and preconstruction to design, delivery, operational readiness and project closeout. The company also helps airport operators maintain safe and efficient operations during construction.
Airport Infrastructure Faces Growing Demands
Airports worldwide are facing significant changes. Passenger demand continues to grow, while many facilities require modernization. At the same time, climate pressures and new technologies are changing how airports operate.
As a result, airport owners increasingly need integrated solutions that combine planning, engineering, sustainability, digital technology and operational readiness.
Jacobs applies this approach across its global aviation portfolio. The company works with airport owners to increase capacity, improve passenger experiences and strengthen operational resilience.
Delivering Major Airport Projects
Large airport programs require careful coordination because construction often takes place while facilities remain operational.
Jacobs is supporting several major airport modernization projects, including the $1.6 billion CLEvolution program at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, the replacement passenger terminal at Hollywood Burbank Airport and London Gatwick Airport’s capital investment program.
These projects demonstrate Jacobs’ ability to modernize airport infrastructure while helping operators maintain continuity during construction.
Supporting Airports Across Their Lifecycle
Airport performance depends on more than passenger terminals. Runways, taxiways, airfields and operational systems also play important roles in maintaining safety and efficiency.
Jacobs is supporting major airfield investments at Denver International Airport. The company is also working on the modernization of the automated aerotrain system at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia.
For the KLIA aerotrain replacement program, Jacobs provides project management support across planning, design, testing and commissioning. The new driverless people mover is designed to improve passenger connectivity and operational reliability.
In India, Jacobs is supporting Noida International Airport as it prepares for future demand. The work integrates sustainability into airport planning and delivery from the early stages of development.
Advancing Airport Sustainability and Digital Innovation
Airports are also using digital technologies and sustainable practices to improve performance and reduce emissions.
In the United Kingdom, Jacobs is supporting Heathrow Airport’s decarbonization program. Its Marginal Abatement Cost Curve tool helps stakeholders evaluate carbon reduction initiatives and prioritize investments based on emissions and cost impacts.
Meanwhile, Jacobs is supporting the development of King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The work includes airport planning, runway design, sustainability and digital systems.
The project also includes planning for smart operations, passenger experience, digital twins and cybersecurity. Together, these capabilities can help create a more connected and efficient airport.
Preparing Airports for Day-One Operations
Airport projects do not end when construction finishes. New facilities and systems must be ready to operate safely from the first day.
Jacobs’ Operational Readiness, Activation and Transition practice helps airports prepare people, processes, systems and stakeholders for the transition to live operations.
Recent activations at Pittsburgh International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport demonstrate the company’s work on complex operational transitions.
These efforts help minimize disruption while preparing staff, systems and facilities for day-one operations.
Jacobs Strengthens Its Aviation Leadership
Jacobs’ latest ENR recognition reflects its broad role in airport development and modernization.
By combining airport design with engineering, sustainability, digital innovation and operational readiness, the company aims to help airport owners manage today’s challenges while preparing for future demand.
The recognition also reinforces Jacobs’ position as a leading airport design firm, with expertise spanning major aviation infrastructure projects worldwide.
