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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND vation also includes the commissioning of a new system and
facilities and approvals from authorities having jurisdiction.
This synthesis is based on information gathered from the Although both commissioning and approvals are part of most
Synthesis Topic Panel, a search of relevant literature, and terminal facilities projects, they are generally the responsi-
interviews with those involved with airport terminal facilities bility of the architect engineer construction (AEC) team.
openings and activations. Valuable information was also col- Typically, activation includes verifying and confirming that
lected from and lessons were learned during interviews with these tasks are complete, but that the actual commissioning
those involved with both airports that opened successfully and and approvals are the responsibility of the AEC team. This
those that opened with problems. Many of the latter requested effort is included in the confirmation activities referenced in
anonymity. Hence, in the survey responses the respondents item 1 of the previous list.
are identified by number.
AIRPORT TERMINAL FACILITIES ACTIVATION
SYNTHESIS TOPIC PANEL
Airport terminal facilities activation is the process used to
The Synthesis Topic Panel included industry experts who gen- bring a new or rejuvenated facility from the state of static com-
erously shared their time and expertise to develop the scope pletion to normal ongoing operations. Ideally, this happens
for this study, provided insight into the challenges of airport before and culminates on airport terminal facility opening day
terminal facility activation, and assisted in developing con- (AOD). Unfortunately, some facilities open before the airport
sistent terminology and Current Industry Practices. Many terminal activation process and/or even the construction is
of the issues identified and comments made by the Synthesis complete. This risks an increased potential for delays, diver-
Topic Panel are consistent with and reinforce the conclusions sions, cancellations, and other embarrassments that can lead to
of the synthesis. significant losses for airlines, airport authorities, and other
stakeholders. Typically, small facilities with systems, equip-
Working with the Topic Panel it was agreed that Airport ment, and procedures everyone is familiar with open without
Terminal Facilities Activation encompasses the process used incident and without publicity. The opening of larger more
to transition a new or reconditioned airport terminal from a complex facilities with new systems, equipment, and proce-
state of contractual completion to full operations. It includes: dures generally receive much more publicity, particularly when
the openings are characterized by surprises and delays, diver-
1. Confirmation and verification that the facility is fit for sions, and/or cancellations. Although it appears that the risk of
its intended use within the terms of the contract and in an unsuccessful opening is directly proportional to the size,
association with the ultimate occupiers or users. complexity, and duration of the project, even small poorly
2. Review of new or reconditioned facilities to confirm planned projects can experience the same problems.
that they are fit for the intended purpose.
3. Identification of any issues and determination of whether The longer the project takes to complete, the larger the
it is appropriate to address them before or after the facility and the more operational changes needed to operate
opening. it effectively, the greater the likelihood that problems will
4. Development of operating plans for new or recon- occur, this happens because:
ditioned facilities, systems, equipment, and business
processes. · Staff working in the facility at an opening may not be
5. Recruiting, familiarization, and training of staff and adequately familiar with it (they may get lost or have
stakeholders. trouble getting to work).
6. Trials to confirm that the new facilities, operational · Staff may not be adequately trained on the new systems
plans, staff, etc., function and work together as planned. and operational procedures.
7. Relocation of staff, tenants, and equipment. · New processes, systems, and procedures may not work
as anticipated.
Some of the members of the Topic Panel as well as some · Construction and systems may not be 100% complete
of the survey participants advised that on some projects acti- and commissioned.
