Expertise
Airports worldwide are investing billions annually to keep pace with the surging demand for travel.

In the United States alone, major airports are projected to allocate at least $22 billion per year to projects such as new roads, terminals, runway repairs and facility maintenance from the mid 2020’s. Similar investment trends are observed globally, with Europe, Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions spearheading infrastructure expansions and modernisation effects.

 

Despite these substantial investments, airports continue to face mounting challenges. Space constraints, evolving sustainability goals, and complex regulatory requirements threaten the efficiency and scalability of aviation infrastructure.

 

As the aviation industry undergoes rapid transformation, airport operators must not only address immediate capacity demands but also anticipate future trends and complexities. The sector’s ability to adapt quickly to emerging technologies, evolving sustainability mandates, and shifting passenger expectations will be crucial in determining its resilience and success in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

 

Christopher Shugg, Executive Director, Aviation and Aerospace at Surbana Jurong (SJ), provides invaluable insights about how industry leaders can navigate these challenges and embrace opportunities to build future-ready airports. His perspectives highlight the broader trends shaping the aviation industry, providing context on how airports can remain agile, resilient, and efficient.

Meet the author

Christoppher Shugg
Christopher Shugg
Executive Director, Aviation & Aerospace (Acting), Surbana Jurong

Christopher has managed multi-disciplinary consultancy teams on a wide range of aviation projects across Asia including airport masterplans, feasibility studies, design of terminals and associated buildings and project management of the construction and delivery of landside and airside airport infrastructure.

He has led Surbana Jurong’s aviation consultancy team since the beginning of  2024.

christopher.shugg@surbanajurong.com

Ready
to
connect?

Talk to one of our global specialists about our Aviation and Aerospace solutions.