The City of Philadelphia Division of Aviation, which owns and operates Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE), has announced the selection of Saron McKee for the position of Director of Access and Accessible Programs.
McKee will ensure that the airport is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and all applicable requirements, develop and oversee programs for people with disabilities, work with stakeholders to ensure that they comply with requirements and laws and ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to all public aspects of the airport. While at the airport, McKee has completed an ADA self-evaluation and revised policies and procedures as required by the FAA. McKee has also provided training, created an ADA Team to focus on ADA issues and developed two new programs. The Sunflower Lanyard program raises awareness about hidden disabilities and discreetly allows the Airport to provide improved customer service to people with hidden disabilities. The Star Program is a collaboration between DOA and MarketPlace to make concessions accessible and pleasurable for all guests. This program will address ADA concerns as well as establish best practices in concessions.
“The Division of Aviation is proud to recognize Saron’s contributions and commitment to equity for all our guests,” said Kathleen Padilla, Deputy Director of Aviation for Diversity & Inclusion. “We enthusiastically share and support her objective to move our airports to be the best in the country in access and accessibility and congratulate her on this well-earned promotion!”
McKee joined the Division of Aviation in January 2020 as the Manager of Access and Accessible Programs. Prior to joining the airport, McKee was the Director of ADA Compliance for the City of Philadelphia, focusing on the city transition plan, creating ADA policies and procedures and consulting on ADA litigation. As a subject-matter expert, McKee has more than 20 years working on disability and ADA compliance.
“My goal is that by ensuring accessibility, all people, including those with disabilities, can easily obtain what they need, enjoy the environment and amenities, and have a seamless journey through PHL,” said McKee.
