Successful airport pavement design goes beyond simply operating software—it requires a solid understanding of aircraft loading, traffic projections, pavement materials, FAA design criteria, and airfield operations - along with the engineering judgment needed to turn technical data into practical, constructible solutions.   

This webinar provides a practical overview of the FAA Airport Improvement (AIP) project eligibility and justification process, featuring perspectives from the Federal Aviation Administration, Airports, and consultants. Participants will gain insight into how eligibility determinations are made, what factors drive project justification, and how funding priorities are established at the Airport District Office and regional levels. The session will also outline key documentation requirements, the importance of project readiness, and strategies for aligning capital improvement programs with AIP funding opportunities.

The panel will discuss common challenges encountered by airports and consultants, clarify frequently misunderstood eligibility issues, and address gray areas such as maintenance versus rehabilitation, project phasing, and mixed eligible and ineligible scope.

PRESENTERS
• Nicholas Makhlouf, P.E., Senior Project Engineer, C&S Engineers, Inc.
• Kay Ryder, AIP Finance Branch Manager, Federal Aviation Administration
• Francois Bijotat, Assistant Director- Planning, Houston Airport System 
• John Putnam, Partner, Kaplan Kirsch, LLP 
        

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the end of this ACC webinar, participants will be able to:
• Understand AIP Eligibility Fundamentals
• Navigate the Project Justification Process
• Understand the FAA Determination Process
• Recognize Common Eligibility and Justification Pitfalls to Avoid