A series of major infrastructure upgrades are underway at the Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE). All projects are a part of an effort to modernize facilities, improve operational efficiency, and prepare for future demand.  

Administrative Building Renovation 

One of the most anticipated changes is the renovation of the main administrative building. While construction crews prepare to overhaul the facility, staff are moving into a temporary trailer where they will operate for the next nine- to-12 months. The exterior walls of the building will remain, however, the main entrance will be relocated to improve accessibility and ensure full ADA compliance. Meanwhile, the interior will be completely redesigned in order to transform the existing space into a more functional and modern workplace.  

This PNE improvement project is designed to receive LEED Gold Certification for its sustainable design and construction, and is the first renovation pursuing LEED certification being led by the Department of Aviation. The airport will be implementing a geothermal to generate renewable energy for heating and cooling of the administrative building. The new system will use 500-foot-deep wells to regulate building temperatures and the building design will provide each office with its own thermostat. Additional upgrades include energy-efficient LED lighting, sustainable building materials, sustainably sourced furniture supplies, a modern access control system, enhanced security cameras, solar panels on the building roof, low-flow fixtures, bicycle storage and two EV chargers in the parking lot.  

 Security Fence Replacement 

A security perimeter fence replacement project is also in progress that replaces approximately 65 percent of the airport’s fencing. The new black vinyl-coated fencing made of a more durable, weather-resistant material that offers a cleaner aesthetic while maintaining full security standards.  

Four of PNE’s vehicle gates are also being replaced with new electric drive-through gates with upgraded operating systems, advanced access control technology, closed-caption CCTV cameras for improved monitoring, and more durable gateposts and hinges. This project, which began in March, is expected to be completed by winter 2025. 

Taxiway Rehabilitation Projects 

PNE is in the final phase of a three-year rehabilitation project on Taxiway L, which has earned Envision Silver verification from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure for its environmentally-friendly project design and construction. Taxiway L utilized 30 percent recycled products in its asphalt paving, made upgrades to taxiway and signage lighting to reduce energy usage by 50 percent and recycled of 95 percent of construction demolition materials. Taxiway L is the third Envision verification achieved by the Department of Aviation, and these three projects are the first and only Envision verifications awarded in the state of Pennsylvania. The upgraded taxiway will be 50-feet wide with new 20-foot paved shoulders. The shoulders will allow for better placement of lights and signs and improve snow removal operations. 

Simultaneously, the first phase of a two-year rehabilitation of Taxiway C is underway. About half of the 5,000-foot taxiway is being completed this year, with the remainder scheduled for 2026. These improvements mirror those on Taxiway L, including widened shoulders and enhanced surface features. 

Future Project: Runway 15/33 Reconstruction 

Starting in spring 2026, the airport will begin a three-year phased reconstruction of Runway 15/33, the airport’s secondary runway. The current 150-foot-wide runway will be narrowed to 75 feet, with the addition of 20-foot shoulders on both sides. This change complies with FAA requirements for secondary runways and allows for cost-effective, safer maintenance without compromising functionality. 

“All of these projects are about making sure the airport stays functional and reliable for years to come,” said PNE Airport Operations Manager John Brewer. “Whether it’s pavement, fencing, or buildings, everything has a lifespan and needs to be updated. We’re making sure the airport keeps up with demand and modern aviation needs, so future users always have a safe, well-maintained place to take off and land.”