Soaring Ahead: How Pape-Dawson is Powering the Future of Austin-Bergstrom Airport and Beyond
We’ve all been there – battling traffic, navigating endless construction zones, and waiting in long security lines at the airport – but in recent years, our very own Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has made strides to alleviate headaches for travelers. Behind many of these upgrades is KSA, a Pape-Dawson company, whose deep aviation planning expertise is shaping not just AUS but the future of air travel across the country.
In 2024, Pape-Dawson acquired KSA, significantly expanding our collective capabilities, particularly in aviation engineering and planning.
Building for Austin’s Growth
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Texas, has seen massive growth over the past few years. With an increase in airlines and passengers, more space was needed. Pape-Dawson/KSA proudly stepped in to help expand and renovate the facility.
- Ticketing Counter Renovation and Expansion: This project involved designing three new flexible ticketing counter stations in a previously decommissioned area of the airport. The expansion included upgrades to the baggage handling system, new storage rooms, and plans for future terminal construction. Pape-Dawson/KSA worked hand-in-hand with AUS and its contractors to bring this project to life.
- Checkpoint 2 East & West Remodeling: As security checkpoints became a bottleneck for travelers, Pape-Dawson/KSA redesigned and upgraded Checkpoints 2E and 2W. Enhancements included the integration of TSA PreCheck and Clear Passenger lanes, significantly improving the passenger screening experience. This project, which serves as a critical part of the airport’s West Infill and Checkpoint 3 expansion, was essential in keeping up with passenger demand.
Planning Beyond the Present
Pape-Dawson provides the foundation for airports of all sizes to adapt to growing demands and future technologies. According to Peter Van Pelt, National Aviation Director at Pape-Dawson, “Every capital project starts with planning,”—and that’s where our strength shines. Whether a major commercial hub like AUS or a regional airport in Oklahoma, we integrate long-term vision with immediate needs.
A prime example? Pape-Dawson’s work on a new Campus-Wide Utilities GIS project at AUS allows for smarter utility management across the entire airport campus. By mapping and optimizing underground infrastructure, Pape-Dawson is ensuring the airport’s systems are ready for future demands.
Additionally, we provided vital environmental assessments for the Airport Expansion and Development Program. Our team played a major role in securing environmental clearance for several expansion projects, ensuring that the airport’s growth is both sustainable and impactful, paving the way for eco-conscious innovation.
A National Approach Rooted in Austin’s Future
Across the country, Pape-Dawson/KSA has led major planning efforts—from siting control towers to extending runways for booming university flight programs. But whether in Granbury, Norman, or right here in Austin, the work always starts at the intersection of engineering, community needs, and forward-thinking design.
Pape-Dawson is looking ahead to the next big shift: advanced air mobility. Think electric flying taxis and drones blending into urban airspace. “It’s probably the most fundamental shift in the way aircraft operate since the jet engine,” says Aviation Practice Leader Michael Mallonee. The aviation team is already preparing AUS and other clients for what this could mean—changing infrastructure, adjusting pavement standards, and redesigning terminals for aircraft that don’t even exist yet.
The Sky’s Not The Limit
By combining deep national experience with a hands-on role in AUS’s transformation, Pape-Dawson is proving that smart planning and visionary engineering can deliver real results for travelers today—and preparing for the aviation breakthroughs of tomorrow.
Our commitment to helping cities and communities thrive is stronger than ever, and the ongoing expansion of AUS is just one example of the team’s dedication to helping Austin-Bergstrom soar into the future—one checkpoint, runway, and roadway at a time.
Details
May 8, 2025
Pape-Dawson