Risk assessment for airport construction projects based on the experience of project managers

Considering the fact that the majority of the contractor's face difficulties and problems while dealing with risks and uncertainties which lead not only to financial losses, but also to motivational and reputation damages; the need of developing knowledge of risk management in construction industry becomes essential. This risk management study focuses on the airport construction projects (ACPs) which are designed not to have only terminal building with its ancillary buildings, but also to have hotels, conference halls and recreation areas which make them to be distinguished from the others. High interaction between the stakeholders like investors, contractors, consultants, suppliers, employees, travelers, customers who are interested in airport retail areas reinforces this need. Contribution to the literature which suffers lack of risk-related studies on ACPs is the other motivation of this study by which it is aimed to guide project managers who are willing to work for ACPs for the risks and risk management methods. For the purpose of analyzing the risks in ACPs, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the experienced company managers, project directors and managers, consultants, department leaders, and prominent subcontractors' representatives. The results of the semi-structured interviews were assessed by Analytic Network Process (ANP) since it is easier and more convenient method than other risk assessment methods to apply for numerous criteria and assessing the results comparing to others. The results of this technique applied are reported to enlighten the ways of project managers and other stakeholders for the risks in ACPs.