Airports are generating more data than ever; however a great deal of the digital information produced during design, construction, and operations is inconsistent, incomplete, or impossible to validate automatically.
Without structure, that data is noise not insight.
The challenge is to turn this fragmented information into validated, interoperable, lifecycle-ready asset data.
In our latest white paper, “NACO Data Dictionary”, we reveal how structured, standardised data is transforming the airport development process into a truly data-driven process. Creating a shared language around airport assets that supports consistency across teams, systems, and lifecycle phases.
Why this really matters
Digitalisation is accelerating, and information exchange is becoming more complex. Clients, partners, and suppliers expect validated, machine-readable, lifecycle-ready data.
Without a clear structure behind asset data, there is the risk of:
- Misaligned requirements across disciplines and suppliers
- Manual data verification with automated, standards-based checks
- Inefficient workflows
- Limited interoperability
- Lost lifecycle value
The solution? A data dictionary that serves as the blueprint for consistent, validated and interoperable airport information.
What you will discover in this white paper
A clear definition of what a data dictionary is, and why it goes far beyond naming conventions
- The global standards such as IFC, IDS, and bSDD, developed by buildingSMART, that form the backbone of structured airport data
- NACO’s layered approach – combining universal, domain-specific, and company-level standards – to enable scalability and customisation
- How data dictionaries improve planning, design, construction, and operations
- Some of the commercial and strategic advantages for engineering firms of adopting a data dictionary.
- How structured data unlocks digital twin and asset management potential
Structuring the future of airport development
Data-driven work is not just a technical upgrade. It reshapes roles, responsibilities, and competitive positioning.
As members of the steering committee for the Airport Domain at buildingSMART, NACO contributes directly to defining the global standards that support airport development. This methodology is the result of decades of airport design experience and years of collaboration with buildingSMART international.
Discover how the NACO Data Dictionary enables smarter collaboration, higher data quality, and future-ready airport assets.
Unlock the full potential of your asset data.
This article was originally published by NACO.
