December 2025 Newsletter

 

Happy Holidays!

Good things start here! Thanks to our teamwork, 2025 was an amazing year of progress:

  • We welcomed two new airlines and many new destinations
  • We opened 8 new modern restrooms, started work on 8 more, and enhanced our terminals
  • Many new employees joined our team through new hiring initiatives
  • New local favorites opened at PHL, along with three premium lounges  
  • PNE began construction of its new administration building and proposals are issued to develop a solar field
  • We launched our refreshed brand, and so much more! 

Get ready for more good things in 2026!

Be sure to complete the Employee Engagement Survey by December 10! Share your feedback and help the DOA continue to improve to workplace!  Results will be released early next year.

In advance of national Human Trafficking Day, a major awareness initiative is being launched at PHL on January 9. You’ll see information about it in our terminals and helpful tips you can use to spot and report it.

stars iconTeams are busy planning an exciting program of events, partnerships and art installations to celebrate all the milestones taking place in 2026 – we’ll be sure to share events as they happen.

 

Best wishes throughout this holiday season! 

 

 

what's new and what's next

bridge program graduates holding certificates
PHL and PNE Celebrate First Apprenticeship Program Graduates 

DOA celebrated a major BRIDGE Initiative milestone as 11 newly trained apprentices joined the airport workforce and 9 reskilled employees advanced into full-time skilled roles.

read more

 

PHL Unveils Rocky Statue

On November 21, PHL unveiled its Rocky Balboa statue in Terminal A-West between gates A-15 and A-16. Thousands of Philadelphia tourists will now be able to visit the statue at two locations in the city, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).  

read more

Rocky statue at PHL with look-alike and Pat's owner
allegiant plane taking off
Allegiant Expands Network to PHL 

Allegiant is joining the PHL airline roster. Beginning in mid-May 2026, Allegiant will offer nonstop service between PHL and Des Moines International Airport (DSM), Knoxville, Tennessee via McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), and Grand Rapids, Michigan via Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR).

read more

PHL Celebrates America Recycles Day

PHL employees, partners, and guests gathered in the airport’s Terminal B/C stage on November 13, for the DOA’s annual America Recycles Day celebration. This fun sustainability info fair included local and airport community exhibitors who showcased their programs for reducing, reusing, and recycling. 

read more

America recycles day. get behind recycling

 

connection hub

Airport Empowerment Groups - GoldPros Come Together for Breast Cancer, PHLight Club Plans December Events

Meet other co-workers and engage in new activities. If you are interested in participating or leading an AEG at PHL/PNE, email your idea(s) to [email protected]

GoldPros (Resources and encouragement for women over 40):

The GOLD Pros celebrated survivors and supporters during their Breast Cancer Awareness meeting. Members shared moving stories of survival and the generous support they received from family, friends, and coworkers. One member highlighted the incredible encouragement from colleagues who lifted her in ways she never anticipated. The theme for the day was “Survivor ~ Sisterhood ~ Support.”

survivor, support, sisterhood

This is a safe space to be who you are

The meeting was a testament to the resilience of these women, who navigated one of life's toughest challenges with bravery and grace. Supporters reflected on gaining strength from the very individuals they were meant to support, showcasing the powerful exchange of hope and courage.

Special meetings like this embody our mission of creating space for Conversation, Community, Connections. For information on upcoming GoldPros events and to join, email [email protected].

New! PHLight Club (For men over 40 and allies)

Chess Event

Thursday, December 4 from 3–4 p.m. in the Fishbowl (4th Floor Collaboration Room 4501). All are welcome, from beginners to advanced players. 

Bowling Outing

Saturday, December 6 at noon at South Bowl, with games $7 each and shoe rentals $6. For more information, please reach out to Michael McCool

The PHLight Club meets the last Thursday of every month. For more information or to join, contact [email protected].

Young Professionals in Business Aviation (YoPros)

YoPros are employees 40 and under interested in networking and connecting with other young professionals. Co-chairs are Amy Liu from Capital Development and Latia White from HR/Training. To join or submit ideas, email [email protected] or [email protected].

Women of Color in Aviation and Allies

Connection, empowerment, and collaboration-- members share experiences, ideas, and support one another. If you have questions or topics you would like to explore, contact [email protected].

 

team growth

New Hires - welcome 16 new team members!

Ashley Mincer—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Brianna Rodriguez—Semiskilled Laborer    
Denise Frisby—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Eimaj McKnight—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Kenneth Thompson—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Khayir Hill—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Kimberline Laidley—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Marquita Martin—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Michael Ramos—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Nancy Whitfield—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Omar Atwell—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Permilira Samuels—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Shaneka Elliott—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Shierra Small—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Stacy Satchell—Facilities Care Worker 1    
Stephen Lozada—Facilities Care Worker 1    

 

train for tomorrow

Training - PHL WORKS, Ethics, LinkedIn Learning, Navigating Change

PHL WORKS Training Sessions

All employees are encouraged to participate in a 60-minute PHL WORKS training session to improve our customer service readiness for 2026 and beyond. Sessions are fun and engaging and there are snacks and beverages!
In December, sessions will be offered at 9 am and 11am on Friday, December 5 in the Terminal D 3rd Floor offices or Friday, December 12 in the Tour Room. 

register


City Ethics Training

The Board of Ethics' new training regulation requires that all existing City employees receive ethics training every five years, in addition to their initial training upon hire. In order to have everyone in compliance, we are beginning a five-year training rollout to slowly stagger everyone's training schedule. The schedule is based on an employee's start year with the City.

register


Introducing LinkedIn Learning: Your New Path to Growth Starts Now! 

We’re excited to announce that select City employees are invited to activate their LinkedIn Learning accounts—fully funded and giving you unlimited access to more than 23,000 expert-led courses. Check your email for your invitation and activate within 30 days to start learning anytime, anywhere. 
Unlock new skills, earn certificates, and invest in you—with support from the Office of Talent & Employee Success and the Department of Aviation.  

For more information or questions please contact [email protected]


You Are Here: Navigating Change with Confidence at PHL

December 3

Change can feel disorienting—like being in a terminal with no signs, no gate number, and no clear path forward. This engaging workshop helps employees locate themselves on the map of change—emotionally, mentally, and operationally—and equips them with the tools to adapt, stay grounded, and move forward with clarity and confidence. 

register

 

staff superstars

Kyhaan Tucker
Kyhaan holding award next to her boss

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Travelers Aid Information Navigator Kyhaan Tucker received the “Teamwork Makes the Dream Work” award for her exceptional service, compassion, and dedication to creating meaningful experiences for passengers. 

read more

Nikosha Brown

 

Nikki Brown with coworkers holding certificate

PHL Impression Makers

Nikosha “Nikki” Brown, a Custodial Worker II at the Department of Aviation, received PHL’s “Impression Makers” award after a grateful passenger nominated her for the kindness and thoughtful support she provided during a moment of need. 

read more

 

 

social buzz

 

at a glance" Monthly calendar

Now through December 15

5th and sunset storefront

Maui Jim Sale

Stop by 5th & Sunset in the D/E Connector and enjoy 25% off Maui Jim sunglasses 

Now through December 24

Chickies and Pete's storefront in terminal D

Chickie’s and Pete’s Gift Card Season Kickoff!

Get a $10 Bonus Card for every $50 gift card you buy! Bonus cards valid through 3/1/2026. Employee discounts do not apply.

Special Promo Days:

  • December 16 - 50% Bonus Day: $50 gift card = $25 Bonus
  • December 1, 8 and 12 - Double Bonus Days: $50 gift card = $20 Bonus
     

Now through December 24

person presenting a wrapped gist in the B/C connector

Gift Wrap Booth 

The holiday season is back! Our holiday gift wrapping booth is open every day from 7am – 9pm in the B/C connector. Enjoy complimentary gift wrapping with the purchase of any PHL vendor item. Must present receipt. 

December 4

gamed:better with Pepsi Thursday December 4 11am to 1pm D/E Connector

Eagles Activation

PHL Food and Shops is teaming up again with Pepsi and the Eagles to bring gameday to PHL! Our Philadelphia Eagles pop-up activation is located between Terminals D and E where we will have a fun afternoon filled with a live DJ, mini Pepsi cans, tailgate games, photo ops, and SWOOP right in our very own airport. We’ll see you there! 

December 4

Tree with lights in front of city hall

Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration

North side of City Hall (N. Broad St. & JFK Blvd.)
6pm - 8pm

Join us for this year’s celebration and support our Free Photos with PHL activation, which will feature a festive backdrop and travel-themed props highlighting some of our new destinations for 2026.

December 15-19

Oyster house storeroom in B/C connector

MarketPlace PHL Employee Appreciation Week

All airport personnel with a valid airport badge can take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts this special week. Keep an eye out for specific deals!

Back

Media Contacts

Christine Ottow
Director of Strategic Communications
267-760-3931
[email protected]
Heather Redfern
Public Affairs Manager
215-600-6105
[email protected]

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