The Federal Aviation Administration's Unique Approach to the O'Hare Modernization Program

Shortly after the City of Chicago announced its plans for the O'Hare Modernization Program (OMP) in 2001, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) established a project office to oversee the Agency's participation in the program and provide a focal point for the City of Chicago. As the planning and design of the program progress, the FAA's role in the OMP grows and become increasingly complex. This paper will highlight existing FAA processes that have been adapted to work within the City's aggressive schedule. It will also introduce new positions, functions and processes established in order to meet schedule constraints and ensure compliance with FAA criteria for airport development and operations. The redesign of the Chicago area airspace and its integration with O'Hare airfield changes will be addressed. Lastly, the paper will highlight the complexity of safely operating one of the world's busiest airports while reconstructing that airport at the same time.