Development of Airport Cargo Handling and Warehouse Infrastructure Through Public-Private Partnerships

Global e-commerce and just-in-time logistics are driving 4–6% annual growth in U.S. air cargo, with over 22 million metric tons handled in 2023 and rising demand projected through 2040. Many existing facilities and associated infrastructure are outdated and constrained by capacity bottlenecks and governance structures ill-suited for rapid expansion. Traditional public funding falls short due to competing priorities and slow cycles, making public-private partnerships (P3s) essential for injecting capital, expertise, and innovative delivery models. Research is needed to deliver a practical guide to help airports of all sizes deploy resilient Cargo P3 projects, from stakeholder alignment to timely implementation. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to develop a guide that empowers public and private stakeholders to successfully pursue mutually beneficial cargo facilities and supporting infrastructure via P3 investments.

Language

  • English

Project

  • Funding: $450,000.00
  • Contract Numbers:

    Project 03-82

  • Sponsor Organizations:

    Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP)

    Transportation Research Board, 500 Fifth Street, NW
    Washington, DC  United States  20001

    Federal Aviation Administration

    800 Independence Avenue, SW
    Washington, DC  United States  20591
  • Project Managers:

    Murthy, Krishna

  • Start Date: 20260307
  • Expected Completion Date: 0
  • Actual Completion Date: 0

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01962997
  • Record Type: Research project
  • Source Agency: Transportation Research Board
  • Contract Numbers: Project 03-82
  • Files: TRB, RIP
  • Created Date: Aug 12 2025 10:06AM