Airports Council International (ACI) World, in collaboration with ACI Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC), has introduced a new global framework designed to guide the aviation industry in managing private-sector participation in airport development. The publication, titled Airport Development Concessions Agreements: Global Approaches and Guidelines for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), offers a structured approach for governments, investors, lenders, and airport operators.
With over
850 airports in 90 countries currently utilizing some kind of private
involvement, private investment is a well-established element of the global
airport landscape. This development model is becoming increasingly crucial for
funding long-term infrastructure and attaining operational enhancements as air
travel demand rises.
The new resource offers comprehensive advice on forming long-lasting,
well-organized collaborations that strike a balance between public and private
interests. The guidelines’ main topics include sample clauses and templates to
promote transparency, as well as frameworks for risk identification and
allocation across financial, operational, and demand categories. Along with
recommendations for incorporating sustainability and community benefits into
airport development projects, the document also provides best practices for
governance, oversight, and dispute resolution.
Well-designed
public-private partnerships can mobilize investment, increase efficiency, and
deliver infrastructure while protecting the public interest, according to
Justin Erbacci, director general of ACI World. “ACI remains neutral on
ownership choices; what matters are transparent governance, balanced risk
allocation, and long-term value for passengers, airlines, and
communities,” he underlined.
The guidelines offer a “clear, practical framework to structure airport partnerships that are transparent, resilient, and focused on long-term value for passengers, communities, and economies,” said Dr. Rafael Echevarne, Director General of ACI Latin America and the Caribbean.
Aviation leaders gathered in Toronto for the 2025 ACI North America (ACI-NA) and ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference, and Exhibition, where the publication was formally unveiled. The document was created in collaboration with Modalis Infrastructure Partners Inc. and Mott MacDonald.
