This section contains resources related to Design and Construction requirements including codes, standards, specifications, and manuals.
Participants in projects at O’Hare and Midway International Airports are expected to provide models and drawings with the CDA throughout project delivery. This excerpt includes the Digital Deliverable Requirements at various stages of design for tenants and concessionaires.
Digital Governance Manual
The Digital Governance Manual outlines the digital delivery onboarding and protocols for ORD21 and Capital Improvement Programs. Access for project teams is available, please email [email protected].
Design Criteria Manual
Version 2025-10-02The Design Criteria Manual (DCM) governs the architectural and engineering design of airport facilities and infrastructure. For access, please email [email protected].
The Standard Specifications ensure all CDA projects follow a unified set of guidelines for quality, safety, and regulatory adherence. Access for project teams is available, please email [email protected].
Sustainable Airport Manual
Version 4.0
The Sustainable Airport Manual (SAM) in an integral part of Chicago’s ongoing efforts toward implementing more environmentally sustainable buildings and civil infrastructure, incorporating best practice guidance for planning, operations, and maintenance of all CDA airport facilities and functions, and those of its tenants.
Wayfinding and Signage Manual
Link and description forthcoming.
Version 2024-11-00
The Construction Safety Manual reflects the desire to prevent injuries to persons and to prevent damage to property and equipment. For further information regarding this document - please contact [email protected].
Version 2025-04-01
The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) has established barricade construction and graphic standards that must be adhered to by all Chicago Department of Aviation employees, CDA partners and contractors, and concessionaires and their contractors.
This is an external link to the codes authored by City of Chicago Department of Buildings.
This is an external link to FAA resources.
This is an external link to FM resources.