New Global Guidelines Unveiled for Airport Development Amid Surge in Air Travel
New guidelines by the ACI aim to streamline private sector involvement in airport projects amidst an increase in air travel.
New Global Guidelines Unveiled for Airport Development Amid Surge in Air Travel
ACI World and ACI Latin America and the Caribbean Chart a Clear Path for Successful Private-sector Involvement at Airports
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Amid record air travel growth, Airports Council International (ACI) World and ACI Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) released Airport Development Concessions Agreements: Global Approaches and Guidelines for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). The resource provides clear, practical guidance on structuring and implementing private-sector involvement at airports for concessionaires, investors, lenders, advisors, governments, and grantors.
Today, more than 850 airports across over 90 countries engage private-sector participation, with continued investment growth, resulting in 132 transactions at various stages set for January 2025. This model has become widely adopted for financing long-term infrastructure and delivering significant operational enhancements globally, reinforcing the necessity for coherent, globally-informed guidance.
“Airports are vital to connectivity, trade, and social and economic development…” — Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World. “Airports play a crucial role in connecting economies and communities. Well-structured public-private partnerships can mobilize investments and improve airport services.”
“These guidelines are built on decades of experience…” — Dr. Rafael Echevarne, Director General of ACI Latin America and the Caribbean.
“Offering a clear framework for governments and investors, aiming for transparency and long-term value.”
What the Guidelines Cover
- State of the airport development concessions industry
- Comprehensive preparations, negotiations, and management of airport development agreements
- Risk identification and frameworks allocation
- Model clauses for partnerships
- Governance best practices and dispute resolution strategies
- Case studies highlighting successful concession models
- Guidance on sustainability and community value in airport development
Why It Matters Now
- Strengthens financial resilience through improved partnerships
- Enhances transparency and stakeholder alignment
- Reduces risk while promoting sustainable growth
The launch occurred during the 2025 ACI North America (ACI-NA) & ACI World Annual General Assembly, hosted by Toronto Pearson International Airport, bringing together over 2,300 airport leaders to unveil these pivotal guidelines.
