Aviation

Delivering for Tucson International Airport: 4 Projects Enhancing Operations and Capacity

 |  Aviation

Delivering for Tucson International Airport: 4 Projects Enhancing Operations and Capacity

Sundt has partnered with the Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) for decades, delivering complex projects that enhance operations without disrupting airport activity. But, beyond this, the airport is in our backyard and part of our hometown that we’re proud of.

 

 

In 1929, founder M.M. Sundt was hired to build in Tucson, and members of the family loved the city so much, they decided to stay and continue the company’s legacy there.

“We feel a sense of ownership to Tucson International Airport (TUS). We live here, work here and fly from here,” said Mike Hill, project director and aviation market leader. “Every project needs to be done right because the airport is a critical component to this thriving community. With nearly four million passengers passing through it in a year, we want them to love Tucson as much as we do.” Mike has been part of every single airport project Sundt has performed at TUS.

With that, safety and passenger experience are always at the forefront of our aviation projects. Our teams have consistently delivered on time, often ahead of schedule, while providing clear cost management and seamless integration with the airport team.

This long-term collaboration with TAA reflects deep experience across terminal, airside, and landside environments, and a commitment to solving complex challenges in active airport settings.

 

Terminal Expansion: Delivering Complexity Without Disruption

Tucson’s terminal expansion and remodel transformed key passenger areas while maintaining full airport operations. The work included roadway modifications, expanded ticketing and baggage claim, an enclosed passenger link to the car rental facility, and a departures roadway.

The project required careful phasing within an active environment and close coordination with airport stakeholders throughout construction.

 

 

“Sundt has a history of completing projects on time and under budget. Sundt has been very easy to work with and very responsive to what we wanted. We’ve never had a single dispute, and that is a record in my 20 years here at the airport.”-Suzanne McLean, former Tucson Airport Authority, vice president of planning and development.

 

Concourse Renovations: Modernizing the Passenger Experience

Across more than 80,000 square feet, Sundt renovated both TUS concourses with upgraded finishes, modernized mechanical and electrical systems, expanded amenities, and enhanced Federal Inspection Services areas.

All work was completed while the airport remained fully operational, with phase II finishing ahead of schedule. The Sundt team executed large-scale interior renovations in sterile areas of the airport, leveraging self-perform concrete to maintain quality and schedule certainty.

 

 

Terminal Optimization: Enhancing Security, Flow & Revenue

This multi-phase effort improved how passengers move through the terminal by relocating security checkpoints, modernizing concessions, and upgrading essential infrastructure systems such as electrical, data, and fire/security.

Delivered through a collaborative CMAR approach, the Sundt team managed complex security requirements, supported shops and restaurants and provided transparent budgeting and scheduling for informed owner decision-making.

 

 

Hangar Replacement: Airside Expertise from the Ground Up

Sundt’s experience with TAA extends beyond the airport walls. In 2022, Sundt completed an aircraft hangar designed to accommodate Gulfstream GVI aircraft, complete with a new apron, taxi lane connector, and secure area improvements.

This project underscores our team’s airside expertise, including an understanding of aircraft-specific design requirements, and the ability to deliver critical infrastructure that supports ongoing airport operations. Once again, self-perform concrete further ensured control over quality, cost, and schedule.

 

 

Tucson International Airport feels like home for Sundt employee- owners. “No matter the space or the project, we want to provide the very best for TUS passengers and staff,” says Mike. “We’ll always be their ambassadors, make sure they find their way to their destination, and deliver nothing short of the best.”

Learn more about Sundt’s aviation expertise.