
Burns & McDonnell is a design-build firm that provides a wide range of services for airports, including program management, master planning, facility design and construction, environmental planning, and operational systems design. They have worked on projects for various airports, including JFK Terminal 6, Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, and LaGuardia Airport. In 2017, Burns & McDonnell competed to design and build a new single-terminal KCI airport in Kansas City but was ultimately not selected due to concerns over the project's financing and compliance with the city's master bond ordinance. The firm continues to strengthen its aviation team and services, demonstrating its commitment to the aviation industry.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Company Type | Premier design-build firm |
| Services | Turnkey design-build, EPC, engineer-procure-construct, design-bid-build, owner’s engineer, construction management, aviation support, airfield design and construction, airport fueling systems, program management, master planning, facility design and construction, environmental planning and permitting, commissioning, operational systems design, IT and baggage networks, aircraft overhaul hangars, fire suppression systems |
| Clients | Public and private clients in commercial aviation, military fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft maintenance, corporate and FBO aircraft maintenance and service |
| Airports Worked With | St. Louis Lambert International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Braniff Airways Base |
| Number of Employees | 7,600 |
| Year Founded | 1898 |
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What You'll Learn

Burns & McDonnell's aviation services
Burns & McDonnell is a design-build firm that offers turnkey design-build and EPC services to clients for all facility types. The company has a team of over 7,600 engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists, and scientists who work on projects for public and private clients in the aviation industry.
Burns & McDonnell has completed design and construction projects for aviation clients, including the historic Braniff Airways Base redevelopment in Dallas. The project involved revitalizing the former operations and maintenance base of Braniff Airways, which was built in 1958 to accommodate the airline's growing fleet of commercial jets. The redevelopment included modernizing two 60,000-square-foot hangars, upgrading fire protection systems, lighting, and aircraft ground power systems, and restoring the central atrium's flight-inspired façade. The firm also collaborated with the Texas Historic Commission and the site development company CLT to develop a design and master plan for the Braniff Airways former mid-century modern facility.
In addition to their work at Braniff Centre, Burns & McDonnell has provided various services to airports across the United States. They aided the St. Louis Lambert International Airport in doubling the capacity of its bulk jet fuel storage, and they provided a new air traffic control tower for the McConnell Air Force Base. The company has also been involved in projects at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
Burns & McDonnell offers a comprehensive range of aviation services, including program management, master planning, facility design and construction, environmental planning and permitting, commissioning, and operational systems design. They specialize in every aspect of aviation facility design, from passenger terminals to aircraft overhaul hangars and fire protection systems. The company also helps airports navigate critical infrastructure needs, from fueling to passenger experience and technology. With a focus on sustainability and cost-effectiveness, Burns & McDonnell brings efficient and innovative solutions to the aviation industry.
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Airport design and construction
The company has worked on various projects, including the historic Braniff Airways Base Redevelopment in Dallas, Texas. This project involved revitalizing a historic site while updating the structure to meet modern aviation and retail requirements. The design-build team at Burns & McDonnell created a design that honoured the building's past while incorporating contemporary aviation services. The base's hangars were modernized to accommodate larger aircraft and were upgraded with advanced fire protection systems, lighting, and aircraft ground power systems.
Burns & McDonnell also offers a comprehensive range of aviation services, including program management, master planning, facility design and construction, environmental planning and permitting, commissioning, and operational systems design. They have experience in designing passenger terminals, fuelling and ramp services, pavement infrastructure, and maintenance facilities. The company prioritizes sustainability and has developed solutions for environmental liabilities and implemented security measures.
Additionally, Burns & McDonnell has strengthened its aviation team with experienced professionals and provides services to both public and private clients in commercial aviation, military aircraft maintenance, and airfield design and construction. They have aided airports in improving their operations and planning, such as assisting St. Louis Lambert International Airport in doubling its bulk jet fuel storage capacity. The company also offers turnkey design-build and EPC (engineer-procure-construct) services, helping clients navigate critical infrastructure needs and address the challenges of growth in the aviation industry.
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Airfield maintenance
One of the key components of airfield maintenance is runway and taxiway upkeep. This includes regular sweeping and cleaning, as well as rubber removal to ensure the surfaces are free from debris and contaminants. In colder climates, de-icing is also a crucial aspect of maintaining safe runways. Additionally, airfield lighting systems must be maintained and regularly inspected to ensure they are in proper working condition, complying with safety standards.
Ground maintenance is another important aspect, encompassing mowing, trimming, and weed control to keep the airfield surroundings well-groomed. This work is performed using a range of tools and equipment, from hand tools to large tractors and zero-turn mowers. Snow removal is also a significant task, requiring specialised vehicles and equipment to ensure the airfield remains operational during winter conditions.
Burns & McDonnell, a company with expertise in aviation infrastructure, offers a comprehensive range of services to airports. They assist in navigating critical infrastructure needs, from fueling to passenger experience and technology. The company has experience in designing and constructing various airport components, including passenger terminals, fueling services, pavement infrastructure, and maintenance facilities. They also provide program management, master planning, environmental planning, and operational systems design.
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Aviation industry challenges
Burns & McDonnell is involved in the design and construction of airports, focusing on efficient and cost-effective projects. The firm offers a range of services, including program management, master planning, facility design, and construction. With airports facing various challenges, Burns & McDonnell's expertise in addressing operational and infrastructure needs becomes crucial.
The aviation industry faces several challenges, including safety, costs, and environmental impact. Safety is paramount, with strict regulations and training requirements in place to prevent accidents. The industry must also grapple with high operating costs, including fuel, labor, maintenance, airport fees, and technology expenses. Fluctuating fuel prices, influenced by global events, create financial uncertainty. The pandemic and shifting consumer behavior have further impacted the industry, affecting supply chains and travel demand.
The aviation industry also faces a significant labor shortage, including pilots, mechanics, and technicians. This shortage restricts the industry's ability to scale operations effectively. Additionally, the rapid evolution of technology creates a constant need for upgrades and retraining, increasing costs and complexity. The industry must also navigate a complex web of regulations, ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and labor rules.
Another pressing concern is the environmental impact of aviation. Airports and airlines are under increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt more sustainable practices, such as using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The industry's contribution to climate change has led to a push for eco-friendly approaches, with connectivity and telecommunications systems seen as potential solutions.
The aviation industry also faces challenges due to intense competition between carriers. Customers often prioritize low fares, squeezing profit margins. This competitive landscape is further complicated by emerging rivals, such as private jet services and budget airlines. Airports and airlines must continuously adapt to remain competitive while managing costs and maintaining high safety standards.
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Airport operations
One of their key contributions lies in the design and construction of airport facilities, encompassing passenger terminals, fueling systems, ramp services, pavement infrastructure, and maintenance facilities. Their integrated construction and design approach bring together engineers, construction professionals, architects, and technologists to create efficient, cost-effective projects. This includes the redevelopment of historic sites, such as the Braniff Airways Base in Dallas, where Burns & McDonnell seamlessly blended architectural preservation with modern aviation requirements.
The company's expertise extends to aviation infrastructure, where they collaborate with clients to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities. This includes navigating critical infrastructure needs, such as fueling and passenger experience, while also embracing sustainable practices. With a focus on productivity and cost reduction, Burns & McDonnell assists airport operators in making strategic decisions, particularly in the face of staffing shortages and fluctuating material costs.
Additionally, Burns & McDonnell recognises the evolving nature of the aviation industry and the need to adapt to new possibilities. This includes strengthening aviation support, such as promoting Mark Rivers to regional manager in the Upper Midwest, and addressing the environmental impact of fire suppression systems. The company also aids airports in improving operations and planning, such as assisting St. Louis Lambert International Airport in doubling its bulk jet fuel storage capacity.
In conclusion, airport operations demand a multifaceted approach, and Burns & McDonnell plays a pivotal role in shaping this landscape. By offering design, construction, and consulting services, they help airports navigate the complex interplay between safety, efficiency, sustainability, and growth. Through their contributions, Burns & McDonnell helps airports across the globe enhance their operations and adapt to the dynamic nature of the aviation industry.
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Frequently asked questions
Burns & McDonnell offer a comprehensive range of aviation services, including program management, master planning, facility design and construction, environmental planning and permitting, commissioning, and operational systems design. They also provide support for airport fueling systems and infrastructure needs, such as pavement and technology.
Burns & McDonnell takes a collaborative and integrated construction and design approach, working closely with clients to create efficient and cost-effective projects. They emphasize sustainability, safety, and productivity in their designs, incorporating new technologies and addressing environmental impacts.
Burns & McDonnell have been involved in various airport projects, including the redevelopment of the Braniff Airways Base in Dallas, the St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) fuel storage expansion, and improvements to LAX in preparation for the 2028 Olympics. They have also provided design and construction services for airports across the United States, such as in Dallas-Fort Worth, St. Louis, and Atlanta.
Burns & McDonnell recognize the challenges in the aviation industry, such as staffing shortages, budget constraints due to fluctuating material costs, and the need for sustainable practices. They promote collaboration between engineering firms and aviation clients, utilizing the design-build approach to secure materials and meet project deadlines efficiently.
Burns & McDonnell is a 100% employee-owned company, founded in 1898, with a global presence in more than 55 offices. They bring together a diverse team of engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists, and scientists to offer full-service capabilities in design and construction.




























