Prospect Airport Services Wheelchair Agent Ayal Kashani received the “Caring Support” award from Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) Employee Recognition Program. This award recognizes employees who go above and beyond to provide care, comfort, and support to passengers throughout their travel experience at the airport.
Kashani has been working at PHL for over four years. His responsibilities include helping wheelchair-bound passengers, assisting travelers with limited mobility, and guiding passengers safely from one location to another throughout the airport. His goal is to ensure every passenger reaches their destination safely, comfortably, and on time.
PHL passenger Sandra D. Lanaway nominated Kashani for the award, sharing, “Ayal was friendly, caring, and exceptionally helpful during a stressful situation at the airport. After I was delayed in customs and my transportation had already left, he stayed by my side, helped contact my driver, and made sure I was not stranded. His kindness, patience, and dedication went far beyond expectations, and I’m incredibly grateful for the care he showed me throughout the experience.”
Kashani says one of the most meaningful parts of his role is knowing he can make a difference during someone’s travel experience. “I want to make sure I get my passengers to where they have to go in a safe and timely manner,” Kashani shared. He carries many of the values into his work, taught by his mother, especially the importance of respect and helping others whenever possible. Both respect and loyalty continues to guide his professional life.
Kashani and his team prioritize safety, time performance, and passenger comfort each day. Hestrives to make passengers feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey. “We’re responsible for the passengers’ comfort and well-being, even during moments when passengers may be frustrated. I like to make their day a little better. I want everyone to have a pleasurable experience when walking through PHL, whether arriving or departing,” he says.
One of Kashani’s most memorable moments at PHL involved assisting an elderly couple traveling internationally after they became accidentally separated following a flight from Boston. While helping reunite them, Kashani stayed in contact with their daughter overnight, provided updates, and made sure the couple felt supported after missing their connecting flight. The next morning, he checked on them again and ensured they boarded their rescheduled flight. “Seeing the smiles on their faces when they finally got on the plane meant everything to me,” Kashani shared.
His co-workers describe him as cheerful, loyal, respectful, and someone who leads by example. Kashani hopes to continue creating positive experiences for both passengers and co-workers while bringing positivity into the airport environment each day. “Airports can be stressful, but if I can make someone’s day brighter, I’ll always do my best.”
“I would like to thank my operations manager “Q” for always supporting me and making sure I’m okay. She’s an amazing manager, and I feel like I can go to her for anything.”
The PHL Employee Recognition Program was established by the airport’s Strategy Groups’ Guest Experience (GX) unit. Honorees are nominated by their peers and guests and are selected by the GX Council Steering Committee’s Stakeholder Engagement Committee. For more information about the program and to nominate an employee, click here.
