For the second year, employees and volunteers at America’s Friendliest Airport® pranced through the terminals with gifts and goodies spreading holiday cheer. They decked the halls of Terminals 3 and 4 during the first two weeks of December to celebrate 12 Days of Gratitude, sharing a sincere thank you and fun PHX gifts with our customers travelling through the airport.
Passengers had the opportunity to win prizes, take their photos with Amelia the Airplane and Navigator Buddies, participate in art activities with the Airport Museum team, or write a gratitude card to be shared with a military service member.
In addition to the fun festivities each day, the PHX team handed out PHX travel items and goodies!
PHX Tops Wall Street Journal List of Best Airports
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was once again named the top airport in the nation among large airports by the Wall Street Journal. Fewest flight cancellations, taxi out time, and rideshare fees were among PHX’s top scores in the Wall Street Journal’s annual Airports Ranking study. This is the second time that Phoenix Sky Harbor has received this prestigious ranking. The airport was previously ranked number one in 2019.
“I’ve been at the airport dozens of times over the last year and a half for major announcements – the opening of the new Eighth Concourse; the opening Stage 2 of the PHX Sky Train®, the launch of mobile ID for Apple Wallet, the launch of Waymo, new air service announcements, Dementia-Friendly initiatives, and making burgers with Bobby Flay,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “All those announcements and the hard work of the Sky Harbor team have been adding up. Their dedication and devotion earned us this recognition from the Wall Street Journal, and we couldn’t do it without our amazing Aviation team and everyone who makes the airport run.”
The study examined the nation’s largest airports on several factors including reliability, on-time performance, security wait times, airfare prices, customer satisfaction and more.
America’s Friendliest Airport® scored very high in the reliability category due to Phoenix’s weather, fewest flight cancellations, and the time it takes for passengers to take off. The airport, which is the busiest three runway airport in the world, focuses on running efficient airport operations on its airfield, on its curbs and roadways and in its terminals.
Read more about the award and reasons Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport graced the top spot.
PHX Takes Home Airport Accessible Airport Award
International Airport Review’s Airport Honour Awards were given out on November 14. Phoenix Sky Harbor took home the Accessible Airport Award (Aria and Dementia Friendly initiatives). This award recognizes Phoenix Sky Harbor’s commitment to creating a welcome and inclusive environment for all passengers.
Visit here to learn more about PHX's Accessibility and Assistance programs.
Airports Council International-North America MarComCX Awards
Phoenix Sky Harbor was a winner at the Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) 2023 Excellence in Airport Marketing, Communications, and Customer Experience Awards. The Airport won in two categories. The first is for Customer Experience Programs. The Airport won for its Dementia Friendly Travel Workshop held this summer. The workshop was the first one conducted by any airport. The second category win was the Best in Airport Partnerships Award. This category recognizes the value of partnerships between airports when undertaking marketing, public relations, or customer experience initiatives. Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor collaborated on a fly to Wisconsin golf promotion.
Banner Health Shine a Light on All Dementias – Trailblazer Award
Guest & Employee Experience Superintendent Misty Cisneros-Conteras was presented with this award at the Arizona State Capitol on Nov. 18, 2023. The award is given to innovative people or groups of individuals who creatively and courageously build new and inspiring programing that enriches the lives of caregivers and persons living with dementia.
Elevating PHX: CASA Unlimited Enterprise
When Joya Kizer was a student at Arizona State University, she was studying zoology and assumed after graduation that she would work with animals.
Instead, her career took a much different path: She is the president and CEO of CASA Unlimited Enterprises, Inc. a family-owned airport concessionaire at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, where her three stores in Terminal 4 help passengers comfortably brave the wilds of air travel.
PHX is proud to showcase the inspirational and successful entrepreneurial story of Joya Kizer and CASA Unlimited Enterprises, Inc.
“I thought I would be a research scientist in a lab,” says Kizer, who has expanded CASA’s entrepreneurial footprint not only at PHX but at airports throughout the country.
CASA currently operates three stores in Terminal 4 at PHX: Lucky Break, Brookstone and the azcentral.com newsstand. CASA, which is a certified Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE), also has joint venture partnerships with InMotion Entertainment, XpressSpa,Stellar Retail Group and SSP America throughout both terminals. In addition, CASA has other joint venture partnerships in Miami International Airport (MIA), Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Kizer’s parents, Yolanda Collazos Kizer and Aaron Silva Kizer, founded CASA Unlimited in 1989 at PHX with the Curious Creatures store. At roughly the same time, Collazos Kizer was the chairperson of the AZ Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s (AZHCC) Board of Directors. Under Collazo Kizer’s direction, the AZHCC embraced a more aggressive business direction and focus.
“[My mother] was such a dynamo, just a brilliant person,” says Kizer.
Interestingly, Kizer started her career in retail with HMS Host at PHX while wrapping up her ASU studies. In late 2001, Kizer officially joined the CASA team to become the store manager of Curious Creatures, where she was responsible for all aspects of the operations, including purchasing, personnel management, cash control, in-store marketing and visual merchandising.
“When I train my team, I tell them we’re in the relationship business,” says Kizer, who says that means that the team should forge meaningful connections with passengers, connect to store landlords and also build relationships with CASA’s partners and vendors.
Kizer says she’s proud of her family’s and CASA’s presence at PHX, noting that the company is likely the only woman-to-woman, second-generation retail ownership on a national level operating in an airport environment.
“It’s such a dynamic industry and symbiotic environment,” says Kizer, who clearly relishes devoting her career to airport logistics, applying her expert skills to the operations, retail, management and longevity of major airport ecosystems.
As CASA’s president and CEO, Kizer does a fair amount of travel, for both business and pleasure––and her love of and interest in animals has not diminished over time. She enthusiastically recounts her experiences raising chickens, pigs and tortoises, among other animals she has had. She also devotes considerable time to her very important job as mother to her two children, Maya and Henry.
For now, though, PHX is proud that Joya Kizer has chosen to use her airport logistics expertise at PHX, America’s Friendliest Airport®.
Exciting Year of Air Service Announcements
It has been a busy year at PHX. From record passenger travel numbers thus far to new airlines and routes, 2023 has been an unprecedented year. Southwest Airlines flew its greatest number of Phoenix trips ever, and its future schedule indicates they will break that record once more before the end of 2023 and again in March. The number of scheduled departing seats in Phoenix for the first half in 2024 will be Southwest’s greatest number in the market ever. Additionally, new carriers Lynx Air and Flair Airlines joined the airport offering international service to Canada, increasing the number to 24 airlines that now serve Phoenix Sky Harbor.
American Airlines will launch service from Phoenix to Tijuana International Airport in February making Phoenix Sky Harbor the only international airport with service between Tijuana and the United States. American Airlines also recently launched a new daily non-stop route from Phoenix to Jacksonville, Florida and adds nonstop service to Pasco, Washington in February. Frontier Airlines saw triple digit growth at the airport earlier this fall after it added several new routes at the beginning of 2023 and previously opened a crew base at PHX. And, to end the year, Advanced Air has started serving Carlsbad, New Mexico with daily flight operations and 2024 will begin with Breeze Airways adding nonstop seasonal service from Sky Harbor to San Bernardino, California. See all the destinations you can fly to from PHX on skyharbor.com.
Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop Returns in 2024
Our award-winning Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop will be back in 2024.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport strives to provide the best customer experience to all passengers who pass through the terminals. America's Friendliest Airport® adopted a dementia-friendly initiative in 2021 that added special programing for those traveling with dementia.
Last summer, the Guest and Customer Experience Team at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport hosted the first ever Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop to help passengers with dementia and their care providers plan and learn how to navigate a busy airport.
“Feeling overwhelmed and not knowing the resources available to help from the curb, through the airport and to the reserved seat on the plane, can make it easy to see how many see traveling as a stressful and scary situation,” said Superintendent of Guest and Customer Experience, Misty Cisneros-Contreras. “Being prepared can make the experience less intimidating for both care providers and their loved ones. We are excited that our Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop adds another layer to the programming already offered to ensure these unique customers have a positive traveling experience.”
Plan on joining the second Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 10, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Those interested in learning more or wishing to attend the workshop can email skyharbor@phoenix.gov. Include the subject line Dementia Friendly Air Travel Workshop Registration. Seating is limited.
Save the Date for Sixth Annual Aviation Business Summit
Join the City of Phoenix Aviation Department in person as we host the sixth annual Aviation Business Summit on Feb. 22, 2024. This event is designed to give interested businesses the opportunity to learn, network, and understand the tools available for doing business with Phoenix Sky Harbor, Deer Valley, and Goodyear airports. The event is returning to an in-person format and will include a variety of informational sessions, networking opportunities, and new event features.
Cooler temperatures have you longing for a seaside getaway? You’re in luck. Mexico’s beaches offer a great escape, and it’s easier than ever to quickly get to Mexico via Phoenix Sky Harbor. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport offers nonstop service to many destinations throughout Mexico.
Mexico’s coastline is dotted with beach towns that offer sun-soaked shores, vibrant culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. From lively Cancun to charming La Paz, each destination offers a unique experience. Here are some to consider:
Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo offer two unique vacation opportunities. Whale-watching, fishing, golf, sunset cruises, water sports, nightlife – you name it, Cabo San Lucas has it. San Jose del Cabo offers a different pace with a historic downtown lined with art galleries. Enjoy the art, do some shopping, and enjoy one of the many local restaurants offering fresh seafood. Golf, surfing, and beach activities are also popular in San Jose del Cabo.
Cancun is well-known for its nightlife, beaches, and crystal-clear waters. If you’re looking for water sports, you won’t have to go far. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, parasailing, jet skiing and more. If you’re looking for nature, culture and adventurous activities, try Xcaret Park which offers rivers, shows, and more. And, with a trip to Cancun, you won’t be far from several different Mayan ruins. While you’re there, explore the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza, Tulum or Coba to learn about Mayan civilization.
Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo provide visitors with a mix of adventure, relaxation and cultural experiences. Go on a boat tour to Isla Ixtapa, relax and see Zihuatanejo’s famous beach Playa La Ropa, visit the Magic World Aquatic Park in Ixtapa, or join a fishing tour – the choice is yours as both destinations offer as much or as little as you care to do on your vacation.
Loreto is another destination in Baja California Sur. It also offers great beaches and marine exploration, sportfishing, whale watching, hiking and golfing.
Manzanillo, located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, this charming town offers beach activities, deep-sea fishing, golf, and cultural excursions. Did you know you can take a day trip to explore the Colima Volcano?
Mazatlan is known as the Pearl of the Pacific. Beach lovers will be delighted to find long stretches of sandy beaches. Many aquatic activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving and boat tours are available. Travelers can also enjoy sampling seafood at local restaurants and exploring historical sights such as the El Faro lighthouse or the Mazatlan Archaeological Museum. If you’re in town, be sure to check out the Plaza Machado with cafes, restaurants, and live music.
Puerto Vallarta offers charm and beauty. With its cobblestone streets, art scene and golden beaches, the town offers a blend of culture and relaxation. Stroll along the Malecon, explore the lush Sierra Madre Mountains with some exciting outdoor adventure activities, hit the beach, or shop for handmade treasures. There is so much to do.
For more information on which airlines serve Mexico’s coastal destinations, visit our Where We Fly page.
The Arizona Republic’s travel reporter Michael Salerno wrote a column on the new international flights at PHX and what’s behind the boom. Check it out.
New Adventures Await in Pasco
Nestled in the heart of Washington state, Pasco offers natural beauty and a variety of activities for even the most discerning traveler. American Airlines will begin offering nonstop flights to the Tri-City area beginning in February. This marks the first time there has been service between Phoenix Sky Harbor and the Tri-Cities Airport.
What’s there to do in the Tri-Cities of Pasco, Kennewick and Richland? Here’s some inspiration:
Get outdoors. Take a hike in Sacajawea State Park. Looking to learn more about the history of the area? Learn more about the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition at the Interpretive Center. Are water sports more your speed? Get on the Columbia River by going paddleboarding or kayaking. There are also plenty of scenic trails for biking or birdwatching in nearby wildlife refuges.
Sample renowned wine. Did you know Pasco is part of Columbia Valley wine region? Wine tasting tours are aplenty at local vineyards in the region. Sample local favorites and learn more about the winemaking process. Fun fact: There are 200 world-class wineries within an hour drive.
Check out a museum. The Manhattan Project National Historic Park is a unique national park that details the work done to develop an atomic weapon during World War II. The REACH museum also has a variety of exhibitions that focus on the area’s geological and cultural significance.
There’s much more to do in the area from enjoying local cuisine to visiting a farmer’s market or checking out a fun seasonal event. Get more inspiration at Visit Tri-Cities Washington.
Have You Heard: Air Canada Dreamliner
Have you caught Air Canada’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner visiting us recently? This “dreamer” will be making appearances all winter long!
Passengers flying from Toronto to Phoenix in the U.S. will now be able to fly on the aircraft.
A man picking up his wife from Phoenix Sky Harbor became very stressed from driving around the terminals, but he got reassurance from an airport employee.
The husband was having difficulty finding his wife at America’s Friendliest Airport® but luckily he found Daelyn H., an Airport Operations Assistant with the City of Phoenix Aviation Department, and asked her for guidance. Daelyn showed compassion and helped ease the husband’s worries.
The man’s wife was so grateful for Daelyn’s assistance that she called a Landside Supervisor to ensure Daelyn received proper recognition. “My husband has never been treated so well at the airport!” she said in nominating her for recognition.
For showing caring and patience to a distressed customer, Daelyn has been recognized by Sky Harbor’s Customer Service On the FLY team (F = Friendly. L = Let me help. Y = You.)
Do you have a story about a Sky Harbor employee and a random act of awesome? Send details to us at skyharbor@phoenix.gov so we can recognize him or her.
Birdwatcher’s Report
The most wonderful seasons of the year are here. The holiday season and football season! Check out one of the Cardinals 772s featuring the gray livery.
Photo courtesy @zonaaviation on Instagram
New Year, New Adventure! Start Your Search at PHX
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the largest economic engine in the state of Arizona. The airport is marking two years of hosting monthly job fairs to help prospective employees get hired at PHX, as the airport continues to see a record number of passengers traveling.
The new year of PHX Job Fairs will be held the first Tuesday of the month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 44th Street PHX Sky Train® Station located at 44th and Washington streets. The station is easily accessible by bus and Valley Metro Rail and a transit pass will be offered to attendees. Parking is also available.
No preregistration is required to attend.
It’s important to note that job openings not only include those at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, but also those at Deer Valley and Goodyear airports! Find your exciting career with opportunities ranging from managing concessions, to ensuring aircraft are cleaned and fueled, to providing top products, food, and services to our travelers and customers. The Transportation Security Administration offers a wide range of career opportunities — whether you are an experienced business professional, recent college or high school graduate, or transitioning military personnel. Benefits vary by each company, but may include health insurance and retirement options, retention bonuses, employee assistance programs and sign-on bonuses.
To learn more and to see positions being recruited by the airport and their partners, visit skyharbor.com/jobs, which is updated monthly before each job fair.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a dynamic and exciting place to work, and there are many flexible opportunities for part-time and full-time careers. When you join our workforce of more than 57,000-strong, you’re joining a group comprised of City of Phoenix employees; partner airline staff; vendor and contractor team members; and an army of dedicated customer service professionals.
Check out this Hot Job at PHX!
Are you in the HVAC service field and looking for a new rewarding career? The City of Phoenix Aviation Department employs HVAC service technicians at all three airports. These positions offer experienced HVAC/mechanical system technicians the opportunity to join our City of Phoenix team in performing skilled and semiskilled work in the installation, operation, repair, and maintenance of heating and air conditioning systems/components and other mechanical equipment, including automatic doors/gates, pumps, air compressors, and fire/life safety systems, in one or more public buildings. To see current position availability, visit Phoenix.gov/jobs.
