Country – France
Objective and approach to vulnerability analysis of two airports
The study is structured around two main stages, designed to provide a clear and comprehensive view of the impacts of climate change on airport infrastructure and operations. The first aims to produce climate indicators to assess the exposure of sites to climate change. The second involves a detailed analysis of the vulnerability of airport infrastructures and operations.
This approach, carried out for Vinci, combines accurate climate data with an in-depth vulnerability analysis to identify the main risks to which airports are exposed. Based on this information, tailor-made adaptation strategies are developed, aimed at strengthening infrastructure resilience, optimizing operational procedures and guaranteeing service continuity in a context of climate change. These results provide airport managers with essential tools for anticipating future challenges and making informed investment and strategic planning decisions.
Phase 1: Climate exposure indicators
The first phase of this vulnerability analysis consists in analyzing current and future climate data for the two sites studied. Based on high-resolution climate models, projections include parameters such as temperature extremes, precipitation variations and wind intensity. These indicators make it possible to identify phenomena likely to impact airport infrastructures and operations, while taking into account the geographical and environmental specificities of each site.
Analysis of future trends will enable us to identify the main medium-term climatic challenges. For example, increasing episodes of intense heat could affect runway surfaces and reduce their performance, while more frequent precipitation could increase the risk of runway and terminal access flooding.
Phase 2: Vulnerability analysis
The second phase assesses the specific risks faced by airports by cross-referencing exposure indicators with vulnerability criteria specific to infrastructure and operations. This in-depth analysis provides a better understanding of the interactions between climatic hazards and the airport’s various components and sub-components.
The assessment includes the resistance of runways, buildings and equipment to extreme weather conditions, as well as the potential impact on day-to-day operations, such as flight disruptions or operating costs. In addition, factors such as the availability of natural resources (water, energy) and the need to adapt logistical systems are taken into account for a global view of the issues at stake.
Recommendations for adaptation
The results of this analysis will provide essential tools for designing adaptation strategies specific to the airports studied. These strategies will include concrete actions such as reinforcing critical infrastructure (runways, terminals, hangars) to better withstand extreme weather events, and optimizing water management systems to prevent flooding.
They will also incorporate the adjustment of operational protocols to limit disruptions linked to climatic events, for example through contingency plans, reinforced maintenance or the use of advanced technologies to anticipate and manage impacts in real time.
The aim is to reduce risks and costs in the medium term, while ensuring optimal, sustainable airport operations. This proactive approach enhances safety, limits service interruptions and effectively prepares infrastructures for future climate challenges.
A proactive strategy in the face of climate change
By identifying the main climate risks and proposing concrete measures, this vulnerability analysis helps airport managers anticipate future challenges. It is part of a proactive approach to strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructures to climate change, while minimizing the costs associated with disruptions.
This initiative, integrated with our climate change data services, offers tailor-made expertise to help decision-makers make the transition to sustainable and resilient climate risk management.