DomusAir issue No. 14 explores how today’s airports, cities, and communities are rising to the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. From the unexpected rebound of global air traffic to the regenerative transformation of post-conflict Mykolaiv, the new edition highlights the power of green design, citizen-driven urban planning, and collaboration in shaping more inclusive and resilient futures.

Overview: Today’s challenges for tomorrow’s airports 

March 2020, airports fell eerily silent, runways emptied, terminals stood deserted. Early on, experts warned of a “new normal” that could permanently cripple the aviation industry, predicting it might take decades for air traffic to rebound to 2019 levels, if it ever could. Yet, five years later, reality has taken an unexpected turn. Rather than a prolonged decline, air traffic has seen a steady growth surpassing even the most optimistic forecasts. In Europe, the aviation sector has experienced significant gains compared to pre-pandemic times. Italy’s major airports have recorded increase in passenger numbers, highlighting a need for further development.

Interview: Change? It’s feminine plural 

In this interview, Women Changing Cities author Melissa Bruntlett shared how women leaders around the world are reshaping cities through inclusive, people-centred urban planning. From Paris to Manila, these changemakers prioritise safe, accessible mobility for all, especially for those often left out of traditional planning, like women, children, and lower-income communities. Whether through redesigning school streets, cycling lanes, or better public transit, their work proves that equitable urban change is possible anywhere, with enough empathy and persistence. 

The key message? Inclusive cities benefit everyone, but real change starts by putting the needs of the most vulnerable first.

Mykolaiv, a community that looks to the future 

The devastation of war has marked a turning point for the Ukrainian city of Mykolaiv, shifting its perspective from loss to opportunity. Even before the conflict, Mykolaiv faced major challenges: economic decline, ageing infrastructure, and a search for identity after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The war only deepened those issues, but it also created space for a bold transformation. Through the UN4UkrainianCities initiative, Oneworks and Oneworks Foundation have been leading the development of a concept masterplan focused on a sustainable recovery and shaped through extensive community feedback. Key pilot projects like the Innovation District, Shipyard Regeneration and Industrial Park are central to this vision, combining economic opportunity with resilient infrastructure. These efforts align with the goals of the Ukraine Recovery Conference happening in Rome this weekend where we will be there to present our work in Mykolaiv.

Infrastructure Case Studies 

1. Nanchang, in the rhythm of the arcs

Nanchang East Station, is a major new transportation hub designed by von Gerkan, Marg and Partners Architects alongside Chinese partners. The station acts as the centrepiece of a TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) plan, fostering a vibrant mixed-use district with offices, retail, cultural venues, creative industry spaces, and residential units. Inspired by airport ground traffic controlling centres, its infrastructure prioritises seamless passenger flow, accessibility for pedestrians and public transit, and efficient connectivity. This integration supports the commute of Nanchang’s five million residents, strengthening the city’s eastern corridor.

2. A mindful journey 

Gelephu International Airport in Bhutan, designed by BIG, in collaboration with Arup, Cistri, and NACO, blends traditional craftsmanship with its architectural vision. Located near the Bhutan–India border, the timber structure incorporates traditional woodcarvings that highlight Bhutan’s cultural heritage and its guiding principles of happiness and mindfulness. Part of the Gelephu Mindfulness City plan, the airport aims to handle over a million passengers annually by 2040 and showcases a unique fusion of artisan skill and technology. 

3. Designing together with citizens 

Designed by SOM, the new terminal at Kansas City International Airport is the city’s largest-ever infrastructure project, replacing outdated terminals with a sustainable 1.1 million sqft facility. The H-shaped terminal increases capacity to over 16 million passengers annually, with all operations unified under one roof. Shaped by extensive community input, the design prioritises accessibility, local identity, and cultural expression through intuitive layout, natural light, and integrated public art. The result is a welcoming gateway that celebrates Kansas City’s heritage and community values. 

4. Urban stitching interventions 

Logroño Intermodal Hub and Green Belt, in northern Spain, the burial of railway tracks has changed a once-divided urban area into a unified, green public space, reconnecting the city socially and spatially. Designed by Ábalos + Sentkiewicz, with a focus on circularity and community benefit, the project merges infrastructure with landscape, forming a green axis for urban life.

A quick sustainability pill: Miracle on Fifth Avenue 

New York City is investing over $400 million to transform Fifth Avenue, from Bryant Park to Central Park, into a greener, safer, and more pedestrian-friendly corridor. The redesign will expand sidewalks by 46%, reduce traffic lanes from five to three, and introduce over 230 trees, 20.000 sqft of planters, new lighting, seatings, and stormwater infrastructure. Drawing on international precedents like the Champs-Élysées, the project aims to support economic vitality, elevate Fifth Avenue’s architectural heritage, and reclaim public space for all New Yorkers. 

Lastly, take-off by Giulio De Carli

Just a few years ago, air transport faced deep uncertainty, questioned by the climate crisis, deglobalisation and the pandemic. Many plans stalled, and the sector’s long-term vision narrowed dangerously. Yet where investment continued, the difference is now clear: traffic has rebounded strongly, and airports that were prepared are now reaping the benefits. The pause of recent years is a rare opportunity, to rethink and rebuild with the best tools and vision available. DomusAir will continue to spotlight projects that lead the way.

Pick up your copy with the latest edition of Domus Magazine and follow some of the key stories at DomusWeb.it