Route Development
DFW Airport Partners with Jacobs and PA Consulting for Intelligent Aviation
DFW Airport collaborates with Jacobs and PA Consulting to implement AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity for smarter, predictive airport operations.
In an increasingly connected world, the demand for air travel continues to climb, placing immense pressure on existing Airports infrastructure. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), one of the busiest hubs on the planet, is meeting this challenge head-on. Instead of simply expanding runways and terminals, DFW is pioneering a digital-first approach. The airport has selected Dallas-based engineering firm Jacobs and technology consultancy PA Consulting to spearhead a landmark digital transformation, aiming to create a blueprint for the intelligent airport of the future.
This initiative is more than just a tech upgrade; it represents a fundamental shift in how an airport operates. The goal is to weave artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and robust Cybersecurity into the very fabric of DFW’s infrastructure. By doing so, the airport aims to move from a reactive to a predictive model of operations, enhancing efficiency, improving the passenger experience, and ensuring long-term, scalable growth. Here, we explore the key facets of this ambitious project and what it signals for the future of aviation.
The Partnerships between DFW, Jacobs, and PA Consulting brings together a unique blend of expertise. DFW provides the real-world, high-stakes environment of a top-tier international airport. Jacobs, ranked as the No. 1 airport design firm by Engineering News-Record in 2025, contributes deep experience in AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics, having worked with major airports like Heathrow, Denver, and Los Angeles. Complementing this is PA Consulting, which brings global experience in digital transformation and aviation strategy, focusing on implementing intelligent systems to drive operational excellence.
The project’s core objective is to establish a new benchmark for intelligent, data-driven airport operations in North-America. It’s a response to the dual pressures of rising global demand for air travel and the critical need for investment in airport infrastructure. The partnership aims to develop a scalable, future-ready aviation model that is more agile and responsive to the ever-changing demands of the industry.
This forward-looking initiative is designed to address DFW’s priority challenges across the entire asset lifecycle. By embedding advanced digital solutions from the ground up, the team plans to unlock lasting value not just for the airport and its passengers, but for the entire surrounding community.
“As global demand for air travel increases and airport investment needs rise, DFW is creating a blueprint for the intelligent airport of the future by embedding AI, machine learning and data analytics at the core of operations.” – Amer Battikhi, Jacobs Executive Vice President
The term “intelligent aviation infrastructure” refers to the deep integration of digital technologies into an airport’s physical systems. It’s about creating a connected environment where data from countless sources, from baggage carousels to flight schedules, is harnessed to make smarter, faster decisions. According to Lokesh Mahajan, a transport data and AI expert from PA Consulting, many airports are held back by legacy infrastructure. The essential first step, he argues, is to build a unified, AI-ready foundation to move away from these siloed systems and unlock the true power of modern technology.
At its core, this means leveraging AI and machine learning to optimize nearly every facet of airport operations. For example, AI algorithms can analyze flight patterns and passenger flow to optimize gate assignments, significantly reducing aircraft turnaround times. In maintenance, AI can predict potential equipment failures before they happen by analyzing sensor data, which minimizes downtime and enhances safety. For passengers, these systems can help manage queues more efficiently, speed up check-in, and provide personalized, real-time travel information.
Another critical application is in baggage handling, where AI can be used to track luggage in real-time throughout its journey, drastically reducing the chances of lost or delayed bags. By creating a more connected and responsive airport environment, the DFW project aims to make the travel experience smoother and more reliable for millions of passengers. As airports become smarter and more interconnected, they also become more attractive targets for cyber threats. The vast amounts of sensitive passenger and operational data handled by an airport make it a prime target for malicious actors. Recognizing this, the DFW initiative places a strong emphasis on “embedded cybersecurity,” meaning security measures are integrated into the system’s design from the very beginning, not added as an afterthought.
The threats are varied and serious. They include malware and ransomware attacks that can encrypt critical data or disrupt operations, phishing attempts designed to trick employees into revealing confidential information, and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks that can overwhelm airport networks and bring systems to a halt. A security breach could lead to anything from flight delays and financial loss to significant safety risks.
Therefore, a core component of this digital transformation involves building robust cybersecurity measures to protect the entire infrastructure. This includes securing networks, safeguarding air traffic control systems, and protecting passenger data. By making cybersecurity a foundational element, the project aims to ensure that the airport of the future is not only intelligent but also resilient and secure.
The partnership between DFW, Jacobs, and PA Consulting is more than just an isolated project; it’s a pioneering effort that could set a new global standard. As airports worldwide grapple with similar challenges of rising passenger volumes and the limitations of aging infrastructure, the success of DFW’s intelligent aviation model will be closely watched. The solutions developed here are designed to be scalable, meaning they could potentially be adapted and implemented at other airports in the future.
This initiative highlights a clear trend: the future of aviation is digital. The collaboration between an engineering powerhouse like Jacobs and a specialized technology consultancy like PA Consulting provides a powerful model for tackling large-scale digital transformation projects. By focusing on a unified, AI-ready foundation with security at its core, DFW is not just preparing for the future; it is actively building it, ensuring a more efficient, secure, and seamless travel experience for generations to come.
Question: What is the “intelligent aviation infrastructure” project at DFW Airport? Question: Who are the main partners involved in this project? Question: Why is cybersecurity a critical part of this initiative? Sources: Dallas Innovates
DFW Airport Taps Jacobs and PA Consulting for a New Era of Intelligent Aviation
The Strategic Partnership: Building a Future-Ready Airport
Deconstructing “Intelligent Aviation Infrastructure”
The Non-Negotiable: Embedded Cybersecurity
Conclusion: A New Model for Global Aviation
FAQ
Answer: It is a digital transformation initiative led by Jacobs and PA Consulting to embed artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity into DFW’s core operations. The goal is to create a more efficient, predictive, and responsive airport model to handle increasing travel demand.
Answer: The project is a strategic collaboration between Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Jacobs (a global engineering firm), and PA Consulting (a technology and innovation consultancy).
Answer: As airports become more digitally connected, they become more vulnerable to cyber threats like malware, ransomware, and data breaches. The project integrates “embedded cybersecurity” from the start to protect sensitive passenger data and critical operational systems, ensuring the airport remains resilient and secure.
Photo Credit: DFW Airport
Route Development
Chicago O’Hare Launches Orchard-Inspired Concourse D Expansion
O’Hare International Airport’s $1.3B Concourse D with orchard-inspired design and 19 flexible gates is set to open in late 2028.
This article is based on an official press release from the City of Chicago.
On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) released a detailed animated preview of “The New Concourse D” at O’Hare International Airports. Formerly known as Satellite Concourse 1, this $1.3 billion infrastructure project represents a pivotal phase in the airport’s massive ORDNext expansion program.
According to the official announcement, the new facility is currently under construction following a groundbreaking ceremony in August 2025. Scheduled to open to the public in late 2028, Concourse D is designed to modernize the passenger experience with a focus on wellness, natural light, and operational flexibility. The project is being led by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), alongside partners Ross Barney Architects and Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects (JGMA).
The newly released video highlights a dramatic shift in design philosophy for the airport, moving away from industrial aesthetics toward a “nature-infused” environment that pays homage to the site’s history.
The central theme of the new concourse is a direct nod to O’Hare’s pre-aviation history as an apple orchard, originally known as Orchard Field, which gave the airport its “ORD” IATA code. The City of Chicago press release details how the interior architecture features tree-like structural columns that branch out to support the roof, creating a canopy effect intended to reduce travel stress.
A key feature of the design is the “Oculus,” a central skylight that serves as the building’s architectural focal point. The design team emphasizes that this feature is not merely aesthetic but functional, directing natural daylight deep into the building to aid in intuitive wayfinding.
“We designed the new satellite concourse to create a frictionless experience for travelers… The gate lounges feature column-free expanses for easy wayfinding, high ceilings to optimize views, and a daylighting strategy to help align the body’s natural rhythms.”
, Scott Duncan, Design Partner at SOM
The facility will include over 20,000 square feet of airline lounge space and 30,000 square feet dedicated to retail and concessions. In a move to accommodate modern traveler needs, the design also incorporates a dedicated children’s play area and multi-level communal seating equipped with integrated charging stations. Beyond the aesthetics, Concourse D is a critical component of the broader ORDNext (formerly O’Hare 21) capital program. The expansion is necessary to maintain O’Hare’s status as a global hub by increasing gate capacity and flexibility.
According to the CDA, the concourse will add 19 new flexible gates to the airport’s portfolio. These gates are designed with versatility in mind, capable of accommodating:
This flexibility allows the airport to adjust to shifting market demands between domestic and international travel without requiring physical construction changes.
“By breaking ground on Concourse D, we are taking a critical first step toward enhancing how the airport welcomes and serves more than 80 million passengers each year.”
, Michael McMurray, CDA Commissioner
Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the economic impact of the project, noting that it serves as an economic engine for the region. The city estimates the project will create approximately 3,800 construction jobs.
The rebranding of “Satellite 1” to “Concourse D” and the release of this high-fidelity animation signal a clear intent by Chicago officials to solidify the project’s identity before the steel rises significantly. By leaning heavily into the “Orchard” narrative, the CDA is attempting to differentiate O’Hare from other sterile, glass-and-steel global hubs.
From an operational standpoint, the “flexible gate” configuration is the most significant detail. As airline fleets evolve and the mix between wide-body international haulers and narrow-body domestic hoppers fluctuates, static gates can become liabilities. The ability to park two narrow-bodies in the footprint of one wide-body maximizes the return on Investments for this $1.3 billion asset, ensuring it remains relevant regardless of how airline strategies shift in the 2030s.
The project is currently active, with construction managed by the joint venture AECOM Hunt Clayco Bowa. The timeline provided by the city outlines the following key milestones:
Concourse D is located just south of the existing Concourse C (Terminal 1) and will be connected via a new walkway extension. It serves as the precursor to the eventual demolition of Terminal 2, which will make way for the future O’Hare Global Terminal.
Where is the new Concourse D located? When will Concourse D open? Why is it called the “Orchard” design? How much will the project cost?
O’Hare Unveils “Orchard-Inspired” Vision for New Concourse D
Design Philosophy: Returning to the Orchard
Operational Capacity and ORDNext Strategy
AirPro News Analysis
Timeline and Next Steps
Frequently Asked Questions
It is located directly south of the existing Concourse C at Terminal 1. It will be connected to the main terminal complex via a new walkway extension.
The City of Chicago and the Chicago Department of Aviation have scheduled the opening for late 2028.
The design pays tribute to “Orchard Field,” the original name of the airfield that became O’Hare. The interior columns resemble trees, and the layout emphasizes nature and light.
The budget for Concourse D is set at $1.3 billion.
Sources
Photo Credit: City of Chicago
Route Development
SAS and TAROM Codeshare Connects Scandinavia and Romania in 2026
SAS and TAROM announce a codeshare agreement effective February 2026, enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania with SkyTeam benefits.
This article is based on an official press release from SAS Group.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and TAROM, the flag carrier of Romania, have announced a comprehensive codeshare agreement set to commence on February 9, 2026. The partnership aims to restore and enhance connectivity between Northern Europe and Romania following SAS’s strategic shift to the SkyTeam alliance.
According to the official announcement from SAS Group, the agreement will allow passengers to book single-ticket journeys between the two regions by utilizing major European transit hubs. This move integrates TAROM, a long-standing SkyTeam member, more deeply with SAS, which officially joined the alliance on September 1, 2024.
The collaboration addresses a significant gap in network connectivity, offering business and leisure travelers seamless baggage check-through and reciprocal loyalty benefits. Paul Verhagen, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, emphasized the strategic value of the deal in a statement:
“This new partnership with TAROM marks an important step in enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania. By combining our networks and offering smooth transfers via key European hubs, we are giving our customers more choice, flexibility, and convenience.”
Rather than launching direct flights immediately, the airlines are leveraging a “virtual hub” strategy. According to the press release, the codeshare will route traffic through four key intermediate airports: Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), and Prague (PRG).
Under the terms of the agreement:
This structure allows the airlines to offer competitive travel times and frequency without dedicating aircraft to direct point-to-point routes, which are currently dominated by low-cost carriers.
This agreement is a direct consequence of the major airline alliance realignment that occurred in late 2024. When SAS departed Star Alliance to join SkyTeam, it lost its traditional connectivity to Eastern Europe provided by partners like Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Partnering with TAROM allows SAS to rebuild its footprint in the region using SkyTeam infrastructure.
For TAROM, the deal unlocks access to the high-yield Scandinavian market. The Romanian carrier is currently in the midst of a fleet modernization program, transitioning from aging aircraft to new Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets expected to arrive in late 2025 and 2026. By utilizing SAS for the northern leg of the journey, TAROM can expand its network reach while conserving its own metal for other high-demand routes. Narcis Obeadă, Commercial Director at TAROM, hinted at further expansion in the company’s statement:
“In the coming period, TAROM will announce new commercial agreements, in line with the company’s mission to safely and efficiently connect Romania and Romanian culture to the international air transport network.”
Travelers utilizing the codeshare will benefit from the full suite of SkyTeam alliance perks. Members of SAS EuroBonus and TAROM’s loyalty program will be able to earn and redeem points on these codeshare flights. Additionally, premium passengers will gain access to SkyTeam lounges at transit hubs.
The passenger experience on the SAS leg of these journeys is also set for an upgrade. SAS is currently rolling out free high-speed Starlink WiFi across its fleet, a project the airline states will be widely available by late 2025.
The “Prague” Anomaly and Market Positioning
The inclusion of Prague (PRG) as a connection hub is a notable operational detail. Following the cessation of operations by Czech Airlines (CSA) as a standalone SkyTeam member in October 2024, Prague is no longer a primary alliance hub. The decision to route traffic through PRG suggests a strong bilateral interline capability between SAS and TAROM that functions independently of major alliance hub infrastructure.
Furthermore, this deal clearly targets the premium business segment. While low-cost carrier Wizz Air operates direct flights between Bucharest and Copenhagen, legacy carriers cannot compete purely on price. Instead, SAS and TAROM are competing on schedule flexibility (multiple daily frequencies via hubs) and corporate perks (lounge access, baggage interlining). With tourism to Romania rising, foreign arrivals were up 13.4% year-on-year as of August 2024, the demand for reliable, full-service connectivity is likely to grow.
When can I book these codeshare flights? Will my bags be checked through to the final destination? Do these flights count toward SkyTeam Elite status?
SAS and TAROM Launch Strategic Codeshare to Connect Scandinavia and Romania
Operational Details: The Virtual Hub Strategy
RO marketing code on SAS flights connecting Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm to these intermediate hubs.SK marketing code on TAROM flights connecting Bucharest to the same hubs.Strategic Context: The SkyTeam Realignment
Passenger Experience and Loyalty
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The codeshare agreement is effective starting February 9, 2026. Tickets should be available through both airlines’ booking channels prior to this date.
Yes. Because this is a full codeshare agreement, passengers traveling on a single ticket (e.g., Bucharest to Stockholm via Amsterdam) will have their baggage checked through to the final destination.
Yes. Flights marketed and operated by SkyTeam members (SAS and TAROM) count toward tier status and accrue redeemable miles/points according to the rules of your specific loyalty program.
Sources
Photo Credit: SAS Group
Route Development
Starlux Airlines Launches Taipei to Prague Flights in 2026
Starlux Airlines will begin nonstop service between Taipei and Prague in August 2026, featuring its exclusive First Class on the Airbus A350-900.
This article summarizes reporting by One Mile at a Time and Ben Schlappig.
Starlux Airlines, the Taiwan-based luxury carrier, has officially announced its expansion into the European market. According to reporting by One Mile at a Time, the airline will launch nonstop service between Taipei (TPE) and Prague (PRG) beginning August 1, 2026. This development marks a major milestone for the “boutique” airline, representing its first long-haul destination outside of North America.
The new route signals a strategic shift for Starlux, which has previously focused its long-haul efforts exclusively on transpacific flights to the United States. By deploying its flagship Airbus A350-900 aircraft on this sector, the airline intends to compete directly with legacy carriers by offering a premium-heavy configuration, including its exclusive First Class cabin.
Based on schedule data cited by One Mile at a Time and confirmed by Prague Airport, the service will initially operate three times weekly. The flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with plans to increase frequency to four times weekly by adding Mondays starting in October 2026.
The operational schedule is as follows:
Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Prague Airport, welcomed the new connection in a statement regarding the launch.
“We estimate that the route will be used by approximately 95,000 passengers in the first year of operation.”
, Jiří Pos, Chairman of Prague Airport
Travelers on this route will experience Starlux’s most premium hardware. One Mile at a Time notes that the Airbus A350-900 is the only aircraft type in the Starlux fleet equipped with a First Class cabin. The aircraft features a total of 306 seats across four distinct classes:
This deployment is significant because it brings a true First Class product to the Taipei-Prague market, distinguishing Starlux from competitors that may only offer Business Class on similar routes.
While major European hubs like London Heathrow or Paris Charles de Gaulle are often the first ports of call for Asian carriers expanding westward, Starlux’s choice of Prague is driven by specific economic factors rather than traditional tourism volume alone. The Semiconductor Connection “Prague is a long-favored destination for Taiwanese travelers, and growing semiconductor industry ties are expected to further drive demand…”
, Glenn Chai, CEO of Starlux Airlines
Competitive Landscape According to the reporting by Ben Schlappig, this route is likely just the beginning of Starlux’s European ambitions. The airline has indicated plans to launch a second European destination later in 2026. While not officially confirmed, industry reports suggest Milan (MXP) is a strong contender, which would align with the carrier’s Strategy of connecting high-value fashion and business hubs.
Starlux Airlines Selects Prague for First European Route
Flight Schedule and Operational Details
Onboard Experience: The Airbus A350-900
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Market Positioning
We observe that the economic ties between Taiwan and the Czech Republic have deepened significantly due to the semiconductor industry. With major investments from Taiwanese tech giants in Central Europe, business travel demand is high. Starlux CEO Glenn Chai highlighted this synergy in his remarks regarding the Launch.
Starlux will face direct competition from China Airlines, which launched the same route in July 2023. However, Starlux appears to be betting on its “luxury boutique” brand identity to capture high-yield business travelers and premium leisure tourists who prioritize cabin comfort and newer aircraft hardware.
Future European Expansion
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo Credit: Starlux Airlines
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