September 2023

Restaurants and Shops Open in Terminal 4’s Newest Concourse

It has been an exciting and busy end to summer inside Terminal 4 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The airport’s newest concourse, the Eighth Concourse that is used by Southwest Airlines, saw some exciting new additions last month. Five new restaurants and two new shops opened.

The Crystals @ Sky Harbor, the food hall near the D11-18 gates, celebrated the opening of Sip Coffee & Beer, regional brewery Pedal Haus Brewery, Southern Arizona favorite eegee’s, and Tempe’s Berry Divine. Additionally, national eateries Chick-fil-A and Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay opened.

Two new retail options also debuted. Uptown Phoenix features an array of travel essentials and items from local retailers including Changing Hands Bookstore and Made Art Boutique. InMotion also opened featuring the world’s top electronics brands like Apple, Beats, Bose, Sony, as well as an increasing range of exclusive InMotion branded accessories for travelers.

A Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club is also coming soon.

Did you know our webpage allows you to see the latest information on the shops and restaurants at the airport? Pull up skyharbor.com and scroll down to “Navigating PHX Sky Harbor Airport,” a dashboard that breaks down dining, shopping, services and other amenities at the airport.

Fall Break Proving to be Busy Travel Time at PHX

With the long summer still lingering, it is hard to envision fall break. But schools will be on break in just a few weeks which means students and families will be traveling.

America’s Friendliest Airport^® continue to see record numbers of passengers this year and it is going to be even busier as people escape the Valley for some fall fun.

It’s important for travelers to plan ahead. Here are some travel tips:

• Make parking a breeze. With heavy crowds expected during overlapping school breaks, book your parking in advance. Our Sky Harbor Parking program makes it easy to reserve your parking up to six months in advance. Enjoy our convenient parking options in the terminal garages or various economy options. Take advantage of economy parking at the 24th Street PHX Sky Train^® Station, an easy option for who live west or north of the airport.
• Arrive early. We will be busy in October, and it is imperative that travelers give themselves enough time. Arrive at least two hours early if you are flying domestically, and three if you are flying internationally.
• Remember to look through your bags. Prior to arriving at the airport, check carry-on bags or purses for TSA Prohibited Items.
• Need a rental car? Reserve in advance. Coming in from out of town? It is recommended you reserve a rental car in advance. Vehicles may be limited for walk-up customers.

Additional travel tips are available at skyharbor.com.

Exciting Route Additions Added to PHX

American Airlines has added additional capacity into the Phoenix market for the fall and winter. Industry blogger Brett Snyder of Cranky Flier wrote, “Phoenix is the clear star of the show. Last year, its November schedule was basically flat vs. October, but this year it will be up more than eight percent. This tracks with American’s recent moves to consider Phoenix a top tier hub.”

On June 26, American started new daily service to Jacksonville and Wichita. Jacksonville is a new market for Phoenix. The airline also announced they would begin daily service to Pasco, Washington on Feb.15, 2024. Also beginning on that day is new daily service to Tijuana, Mexico. This is a new international market for Phoenix, a new station for American, and Phoenix will be the only U.S. city that American will serve from Tijuana.

Lynx Air will begin new Toronto service, three times weekly, on Oct. 12. This is the airline’s second Canadian destination from Phoenix.

Flair, a new airline for Phoenix Sky Harbor, will begin service on Oct. 30 with four weekly flights to Calgary. Service to Vancouver will begin in December and Edmonton will begin in February. Flair will be located in Terminal 4.

Spirit began daily service to Boston and Newark on Aug. 9.

Advanced Air was awarded the Essential Air Service contract by the federal government for Carlsbad, New Mexico. They will begin daily Phoenix to Carlsbad service Nov. 5 on a nine-seat aircraft. This is a new market for Phoenix.

Check out all the great nonstop destinations both domestically and internationally.

Help PHX Win!

The 2023 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice contests has kicked off and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has two finalists in the restaurant category and are also up for nominations for best dining and best shopping!

O.H.S.O. Brewery was nominated for Best Airport Bar.

Blanco Tacos + Tequila was nominated for Best Airport Sit-down Restaurant.

These establishments represent some of the best food and drink you can find in the state, and we want everyone who comes to PHX to take a taste of Arizona with them.

Voting is open until Oct. 2 and a vote can be cast in each category once a day.

PHX Sky Train® Service Interruptions

The PHX Sky Train® will temporarily shut down for system upgrades and testing on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 11 p.m. until Thursday, Sept. 28 at 5 a.m. Shuttle service will be provided and accessible in the following areas:  

Terminal 3

• North side, outer curb, exit Door 11
• South side, outer curb, exit Door 8
• North side, Level 1, exit Door 7, outer curb
• South side, Level 1, exit Door 2, outer curb

West Economy Terminal 4

Garage

• Outer curb, east end, near the furthest east crosswalk

East Economy Lot

• South side of the train station, west end

24th Street Station

• South side of the train station, Level 1, central area curb

44th Street Station

• North side of the train station, east end

Rental Car Center Station

• Lobby/PHX Sky Train® platform level, bays 1 and 2

For more information and a detailed map visit skyharbor.com.

Experience the Vibrance of Monterrey, Mexico

Blending tradition with modernity, Monterrey offers something for all types of visitors. From adventure seekers to cultural aficionados, Monterrey has a wealth of options. And, with American Airlines nonstop flights between Phoenix and Monterrey, it has never been easier to get there. Just about a 2.5-hour flight from Phoenix, and you’ll land in Monterrey set in the stunning backdrop of the Sierre Madre Oriental Mountains.

Looking for travel inspiration? Here are just a few highlights to enjoy when you’re visiting Monterrey:

• Explore the Macroplaza, the heart of Monterrey. It’s one of the largest public squares in the world. The Macroplaza is an iconic urban park featuring fountains, sculptures and lush green areas. Enjoy landmarks like the Faro del Comercio symbolizing Monterrey’s industrious spirit.
• Experience something unique like visiting Grutas de Garcia, impressive limestone caves, located just outside the city. Take a guided tour to see underground rivers and awe-inspiring chambers.
• Love art? You won’t want to miss the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, also known as MARCO. This contemporary art museum features local and international artists in a variety of interactive exhibitions.
• Looking for an adrenaline rush? Check out Monterrey’s iconic mountain Cerro de la Silla. Take a challenging hike to the top and be rewarded with amazing views. This is particularly enjoyable at sunrise or sunset when you can truly enjoy Monterrey’s city lights and watch the vibrant city come alive and shine.
• And, if you prefer strolling to hiking, the Santa Lucia Riverwalk is a good option. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Riverwalk over charming bridges and see art installations. This also a great option to get a nice photo of Monterrey’s skyline.

Whether you want an adrenaline-inducing adventure, to explore art, or just enjoy rich cultural heritage, Monterrey offers so many options. Plan your adventure today and book your flight at aa.com.

You Shine Like the PHX Sun

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport proudly serves on average more than 120,000 passengers each day, so we wanted to show our appreciation for those who help us shine. On the days leading up to the Labor Day holiday weekend, from Wednesday, Aug. 30 through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 4, our Customer Service team and Navigators handed out PHX sunglasses to passengers in both terminals. The black shades were designed with bright yellow sides that included America’s Friendliest Airport^® lettering on one side, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on the other.

Our mascot Amelia also made a special appearance in the terminals and took lots of stunning pictures with passengers. The six-day giveaway brought hundreds of smiles to Phoenix Sky Harbor as our Navigators and Navigator Buddies made sure that passengers received a token of thanks in addition to helpful directions and smiles.

Pawsitive Spotlight: Navigator Buddies Celebrate Anniversary

On the morning of Sept. 1, 2017, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport introduced a new furry cast to join the already-established friendly Navigator volunteers who provide directions, information, and assistance to guests. Naturally, the new therapy dogs became known as Navigator Buddies.

That was six years ago this month, and the Navigator Buddies continue being an essential part of the amazing and friendly service we provide at Phoenix Sky Harbor. Each therapy dog is paired up with their handler making up a Navigator Buddy duo. These teams help de-stress passengers during travel by encouraging them to pet these friendly canines and enjoy a peaceful pause away from their busy travel agenda. It goes without saying that kids love our Navigator Buddies and they love them right back!

The Navigator Buddies volunteer a minimum of 2.25 hours per week. If you or your human are interested in becoming a Navigator Buddy team, you must be registered and in good standing with a qualified pet therapy organization and have six months or more of dog therapy experience. Handlers must be at least 18 years or older and dogs must be one year or older. You must also be a year-round resident of Arizona. To learn more about our PHX Navigator and Navigator Buddy program, visit skyharbor.com/volunteer.

Where’s the Bear?

The next time you’re walking through Sky Harbor, keep your eye out for a whimsical bear named Blanchette. She’s a beautiful soft sculpture created by artist Christy Puetz and is covered in colorful felt flowers and embellished with beads. Blanchette is one of more than 1,000 works in the Phoenix Airport Museum’s diverse art collection.

Blanchette is also referred to as the museum’s SkyHarBEAR. She likes to move around the airport, never staying in one place for long. She is after all living in an airport and has a love of travel. She’s even been spotted riding the PHX Sky Train® and hanging around the Rental Car Center. Wherever she is, Blanchette is always ready to welcome you to America’s Friendliest Airport®.

If you’re one of the lucky ones to find Blanchette while you’re here, take a picture with her and email it to us at the Phoenix Airport Museum, airport.museum@phoenix.gov, and we’ll send you a prize. She is bound to brighten your day.

Southern Charm Abounds in Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston offers a rich and unique experience for travelers with charming architecture, delicious cuisine and beautiful scenery. And it’s even easier to get to Charleston with nonstop flights on Breeze Airways.

What’s there to do when you get there? Plenty! Here are some recommendations:

• Admire the beautiful downtown. Pretty pastel-hued buildings and charming gardens are waiting to be explored as you meander through the city. And, while you’re strolling around the city, catch picturesque views from Charleston Waterfront Park. You’ll see the harbor and can watch the boats sail by.
• History lovers will enjoy the city as they visit the Charleston Museum, Dock Street Theatre, or Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum to name a few. Did you know the Charleston Museum is the oldest in the country?
• Hungry? So many options await you in Charleston. Enjoy Southern comfort food with a modern twist and savor the flavors of the Lowcountry at local restaurants.
• Looking to do some shopping? Boutique shops are located throughout the city, but why not check out the Charleston City Market which includes many local vendors selling handmade items and South Carolina delicacies?
• Maybe beach time is more your speed. You can do that too. Hit the beach, dip your toes into the Atlantic and enjoy relaxing at Folly Beach or Isle of Palms.

Charleston has activities to suit all interests. To learn more, visit charlestoncvb.com.

Looking for Work? Start Your Search at PHX

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport hosts monthly job fairs to help prospective employees get hired at PHX.

The next PHX Job Fair will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 3. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 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.

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. Representatives from each of these branches will be present to answer any questions and help attendees take their first step toward joining our team.

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.

On-The-Fly Award

An employee at one of Phoenix’s general aviation airports helped keep a lost dog from harm and find its owner to boot.

Terry B., an operations technician at Phoenix Goodyear Airport, rescued a dog before it got on the airfield. He then posted details of the dog on social media and was able to locate the dog’s owners.

We know our guests love dogs and so does Terry, so he was recognized for caring and compassion by our 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.

A Quiet Place in the Airport

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport takes being America’s Friendliest Airport^® to heart. We are always working on ways to improve the experience of traveling through our airport for all passengers. That is why we are proud of our Compassion Corner. This section of the airport is encompassed by a Chapel and Sensory Room, available for everyone to use. It is located in Terminal 4 on Level 3 near the B elevators.

The All-Faiths Chapel is a place of comfort to reflect, regroup, or reach out. It’s open to people of all faiths from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is located within the Compassion Corner. Upon availability, Navigator Chaplains and lay members are available for those who would like to meet with a religious representative. At times, the chapel hosts services for various religious holidays.

We know Terminal 4 can get overwhelming at times which is why it is home to the Sensory Room. The Sensory room is located inside the Compassion Corner and is a space designed to remove the loud sounds, lights and fast paced movement inside a terminal and may overwhelm those with sensory sensitivities. This private room is equipped with tables, chairs, puzzles, and coloring books. Access can be given by calling the number listed on the Sensory Room door, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

We also have an office inside the Compassion Corner open daily for Navigator Chaplain management and accessibility/functional needs assistance. This is also the designated place to pick up an approved Compassion Cacti™ lanyard. The lanyard is part of a program aimed at providing an extra friendly and patient hand to customers who self-identify as needing additional assistance when traveling through the airport. When worn, this lets staff know that a passenger will need extra time at the check in counter, security checkpoints, and other areas. Customers, their parents, caregivers, or guardians can request a Compassion Cacti lanyard prior to their next visit within three months or less by completing a request form at skyharbor.com. Requests will be reviewed by customer service staff within 5-7 business days. Customers can claim their lanyard by showing a valid photo ID prior to the day of travel.

More information is available on all of these resources at skyharbor.com.

PHX Recognized for Diversity Work

Each year, the Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence (AZ MDCE) Program spotlights and recognizes companies that execute at least $1 million in Arizona with minority and women-owned businesses.

Connect with Us!

Want to hear about new non-stop routes being added at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport? Are you a birdwatcher that enjoys sharing unique aircraft photographs? Want to know about parking specials or the latest additions to restaurants and shops at the airport? Connect with us on our social media. From Travel Tuesdays on Instagram to Fan Friday photos of planes on Facebook, we look forward to hearing from you. Search for us, @phxskyharbor on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, YouTube, Threads, and LinkedIn.

Birdwatcher’s Report

Our friends at Advanced Air shared this beautiful shot to announce their new direct flights from Phoenix Sky Harbor to Carlsbad, New Mexico beginning in November. We had to share this amazing Arizona sunset.

Photo courtesy Advanced Air.