Aviation Construction: Overcoming Industry Challenges
Aviation construction in 2025 presents unique challenges that require specialized expertise, strategic planning, and proactive problem-solving. From supply chain disruptions to regulatory compliance and cost assurance, these projects demand a level of precision and adaptability.
If your team is planning an aviation construction project in the coming year, here are some top considerations and first-hand experiences from HPM Senior Program Managers Alan Butler and Stewart Nobles. With extensive combined experience working on aviation and airport projects, the two share insights that will keep projects on track.
Navigating Supply Chain Challenges in Aviation: Expect the Unexpected
Supply chain disruptions are not exclusive to aviation, but the industry’s reliance on highly specialized equipment intensifies the impact. New tariffs are anticipated to pose challenges in cost and supply chain over time. When working with international suppliers, it’s important to anticipate possible delays and have a plan of action in mind if it’s clear they will affect your project deadlines.
“Instead of assuming everything will go perfectly, we design with contingencies in mind—what are the impact/options if that equipment delivery is delayed?” Nobles said.
The Importance of Cost Assurance: Value Quality and Long-Term Success
Cost overruns are a common concern in construction, but in aviation projects, the stakes are even higher. Our experience has shown that meticulous cost planning and value engineering are critical to keeping budgets on track.
Experience from past projects enable us to guide our clients toward informed decisions that balance cost savings with long-term reliability. Evaluating the trade-offs of value engineering ensures that cost-cutting measures do not compromise the overall project success.
“Lessons learned on one project become a value add to the next client. That’s why you hire experience—we’ve already got the scar tissue,” Butler said.
Know Your Location: Understand Regulations and Build Relationships with Local Experts
Aviation construction projects are subject to stringent regulations that vary by location. Understanding and navigating these regulations early in the project lifecycle is essential to avoid costly delays.
“When you build in the aviation market, it’s construction on steroids. There are more regulations, more agencies, more complexity. Having the knowledge and experience to develop and execute a plan is critical to a projects success,” Nobles said.
Why Experience Matters in Aviation Construction
HPM’s collective experience across multiple aviation projects has reinforced one critical truth: hiring a team with deep industry expertise is the best way to mitigate risk and ensure success. Lessons learned from one project become a valuable asset in the next. No matter what challenges arise in your aviation construction project, having seasoned leadership and expertise on your side empowers your team with foresight into potential roadblocks and proactive solutions before they affect your bottom line.
Aviation construction is not just about building infrastructure—it’s about creating environments that support safe, efficient, and sustainable air travel. By applying our hard-earned knowledge, we help our clients overcome challenges and deliver projects that stand the test of time.
Reach out to us to learn how our expertise can help you navigate complexities in your aviation construction projects and achieve your goals.
