Jan. 28, 2025

Phoenix Sky Harbor Gears Up to Celebrate 90th Anniversary

Airport proves age is just a number as it begins countdown to this special milestone

PHOENIX—A 90th anniversary might elicit images of a long look back at a full, storied life but Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is looking forward to a busy future as it counts down to its 90th anniversary this year.

America’s Friendliest Airport^® is commemorating when the city of Phoenix paid $100,000 in 1935 to purchase a remote airfield nicknamed “The Farm” that today sits centered in Phoenix and is considered the economic engine for the state of Arizona.

That price is a steal today but it turned into the deal of the century:

• Today PHX is responsible for $13.3 billion annually in direct output of aviation services;
• More than 56,000 jobs are currently supported by the airport and the surrounding Sky Harbor Center facilities.
• In 2024, PHX welcomed its 50 millionth passenger of the year, the first time this airport surpassed that benchmark.

Phoenix Sky Harbor is celebrating its history with big plans for the future and is also showcasing moments from those past 90 years on our social media channels. Watch for profiles and spotlights on employees who have worked at Phoenix Sky Harbor for years. See features on the airport through the decades from the 1930s to today. Collect special trading cards promoting the 90th anniversary.

Celebrations featuring live musical performances, Phoenix Airport Museum exhibitions and activities, and a costume parade of the popular Navigator Buddies therapy dogs are also planned throughout the year.

“The history of Phoenix Sky Harbor is rich with innovation and vitality, and that same vigor and forward thinking will drive this airport to bigger and better things,” said Aviation Director Chad Makovsky. “From capital improvements and sustainable practices to widely sought concessions to art that enriches us, Phoenix Sky Harbor has always been about elevating the passenger experience to the traveling public. Even more though, Phoenix Sky Harbor is an integral part of the community. Our goal is to provide that important connection between our community and to showcase the diversity and welcoming spirit of Phoenix to our visitors.”

A special 90th anniversary section can be found at skyharbor.com/90years, and will feature historic photos, interviews with longtime employees and fun facts about the airport.

– 30 –

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, America’s Friendliest Airport^®, has an annual economic impact of more than $44 billion. On an average day, approximately 1,000 aircraft and more than 130,000 passengers arrive at and depart from Phoenix Sky Harbor every day. PHX Sky Harbor is funded with airport revenue. No tax dollars are used to support the airport.

Celebrating 90 Years of Ownership by the City of Phoenix