Aviation Project Management Framework: Lifecycle and Practices

Aviation projects are high-stakes, high-risk, and highly regulated—yet existing project management standards often fall short of addressing their unique demands. As the field of project management evolves toward more conceptual and flexible approaches, aviation professionals are left without the concrete, process-driven guidance they need to succeed.

Aviation Project Management Framework bridges this critical gap with a comprehensive, research-backed framework designed specifically for the aviation industry. Drawing on real-world case studies and academic research, this book outlines a tailored methodology that accounts for aviation’s distinct operational constraints, stringent safety standards, and complex regulatory environment.

Whether you’re overseeing aircraft design, airport construction, maintenance operations, or regulatory compliance programs, this book equips you with tools and strategies that align with aviation’s high-pressure, no-fail culture.

Perfect for project managers, engineers, regulators, and aviation executives alike, this essential guide empowers you to deliver successful outcomes in one of the world’s most challenging and dynamic industries.

Dr. James Marion, PMP, PMI-RMP, is the Department Chair and Associate Professor in the Department of Decision Sciences and Analytics for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. He has been teaching for Embry-Riddle since 2009 and became Department Chair in 2020. Dr. Marion is a fellow of the American Society of Engineering Management and a member of the Project Management Institute.

Dr. Tracey Richardson, PMP, is a tenured, Associate Professor of Project Management at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. She has a Doctorate of Organizational Leadership from Argosy University's School of Psychology and is a certified Project Management Professional and a Project Management Institute (PMI)-Risk Management Professional. Tracey is a retired USAF Aircraft Maintenance Officer.

Dr. Valerie Denney, PMP, is a tenured Associate Professor of Decision Sciences in the College of Business at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. Dr. Denney teaches bachelor's and master's degrees in project management and the master's in Engineering Management. She is on the Board of Directors for the International Center for Academic Integrity and serves as the Vice President.