Big things are coming to Philadelphia in 2026, and it’s going to be an exciting year at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). With events like America’s 250th birthday, the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, PGA Championship, FIFA World Cup, and MLB All-Star Game all happening in the city, travelers from around the world will be passing through PHL. For many visitors the airport will be their first stop in Philadelphia and PHL is ready to make a good impression! On December 30, PHL held a special preview to show some of the activities coming to the airport in 2026. The preview took place in front of a new 2026-focused art exhibit in the Youth Art Gallery in the A-East Baggage Claim area.
Facility Improvements
PHL continues to invest in making travel more comfortable. In 2026, the airport plans to add eight new restroom sets and install a new exterior facade outside the D and E Terminals by replacing windows with a modern energy-efficient system.
Art Exhibitions Program
PHL is known for bringing local art into the airport through its Art Exhibitions Program. In 2026, the airport will feature some meaningful exhibits that celebrate Philadelphia’s history and community.
Travelers will have a chance to explore a visual history of the Philadelphia Union i at the top of Terminal D starting in May. The exhibit will highlight the team’s journey from its early days to today, with archival photos and a jersey from every season.
A tribute to the Fleisher Art Memorial, the oldest community art school in the country, will also be on display beginning in January at Gate F7. Highlighting 2026, the exhibit will feature fifty years of photography from students and teachers. 
Artwork from Constitution High School students is featured in the A-East Baggage area. Students focused on Philadelphia neighborhoods, highlighting the people, locations, and events that matter most to the city. Their work will remain on display through next December. Miranda Thompson, Art Teacher at Constitution High School, shared, “We are so excited that Constitution High School was invited by the airport to participate in this show celebrating 250 years of Philadelphia’s freedom. Our students did a phenomenal job representing our history, culture, and wonderful neighborhoods. Knowing their work would be seen by hundreds of thousands and possibly millions of international travelers truly inspired them.”
Air Service Development
Travelers will have more nonstop options starting in May. American Airlines will launch service to Budapest and Prague, Delta Air Lines will begin flights to Seattle, and Alaska Airlines will add service to Portland.
PHL will also welcome a new airline partner Allegiant. The airline will begin nonstop service to Knoxville, Des Moines, and Grand Rapids.
Celebrations at PHL
“There will be plenty for all of our guests to see and do even before they leave the airport,” said PHL CEO Atif Saeed. “We have activities and giveaways planned for all the major events happening in our region throughout the year, beginning with the NCAA Tournament in March, through the MLB All-Star game in July. Passengers will also be able to watch FIFA World Cup matches at special in-terminal viewing lounges.”
More activities will be announced throughout the year, 2026 is expected to be a busy and memorable year at PHL. With new art, new flights, facility improvements, excitement and energy of the airport community, PHL is ready to welcome the world and show that “Good things start here!”
