Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport — Attraction in Phoenix

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) has evolved from a small airfield nicknamed "The Farm" into one of the busiest and most modern airports in the United States. Its history is a story of continuous expansion and modernization to keep pace with the explosive growth of the Phoenix metropolitan area. History of the airport Early days (1928–1940s) 1928: J. Parker Van Zandt purchased 278 acres of farmland to establish Sky Harbor for his airline, Scenic Airways. 1929: A formal dedication was held, but the Great Depression caused Scenic Airways to go bankrupt, and the airport was sold. 1935: To ensure commercial air service, the City of Phoenix purchased the airport from the Acme Investment Company for $100,000. 1940s: During World War II, the U.S. Army used Sky Harbor as a refueling stop and training facility, contributing to the city's eventual postwar population boom. Post-war modernization (1950s–1980s) 1952: The first modern terminal, Terminal 1, opened. Notable for its air traffic control tower made from welded fuel tanks, it was eventually demolished in 1990. 1962: Terminal 2 opened to accommodate increasing traffic, a facility considered state-of-the-art at the time. It featured a large mural by artist Paul Coze. 1979: Terminal 3 opened as passenger traffic continued to soar. Deregulation: The Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 spurred growth, with new carriers like America West Airlines and Southwest Airlines establishing hubs at PHX. Growth into a major hub (1990s–present) 1990: Terminal 4, the largest terminal, was built to support the massive growth of America West Airlines. It was later named after Senator Barry M. Goldwater. Demolitions and expansion: Terminal 1 was torn down in 1990, and Terminal 2 was closed and demolished in 2020 to make way for future expansion. 2020: A major, $590 million modernization project for Terminal 3 was completed. 2021: Terminal 3 was renamed in honor of Senator John McCain. 2024: The airport served a record-breaking 50 million passengers in a single year. The airport today Phoenix Sky Harbor is a bustling, two-terminal airport (Terminal 3 and Terminal 4) that has embraced modernization to handle its growing passenger volume. Key features: Major hub: It is a major hub for American Airlines and a focus city for Southwest Airlines. PHX Sky Train: An automated people mover connects passengers between terminals, the Economy Parking areas, and the Valley Metro Rail system, streamlining transportation. Enhanced amenities: Modernized facilities offer a variety of amenities, including local restaurants, high-tech charging stations, and a robust Wi-Fi network. Public art: The Phoenix Airport Museum curates an extensive collection of art, with exhibits scattered throughout the terminals. The relocated Paul Coze mural from the former Terminal 2 is now on display at the Rental Car Center. Strong economic impact: The airport is a massive economic driver for Arizona, generating billions of dollars in economic activity and supporting thousands of jobs. Future expansion: With continued passenger growth, PHX has significant expansion plans to meet future demand. Terminal 3 expansion: A $326 million project is currently underway to add six new gates to Terminal 3. New West Terminal: A new terminal is planned to be built on the west side of the airport, where Terminals 1 and 2 once stood. It is projected to be net-zero for greenhouse gas emissions and will feature a new customs facility to expand international travel. Construction is not expected to start until around 2030

YEP A NICE PLACE A VERY NICE...

Good airport to go to, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport stands as the premier airport in Arizona, serving as a major gateway not just for the state, but for the entire southwestern United States. Known as America’s Friendliest Airport, it consistently delivers a combination of convenience, accessibility, and amenities that make it stand out above other airports in the region. Its prime location in the heart of Phoenix, coupled with its extensive range of flights and services, ensures it meets the needs of both business and leisure travelers.

One of Sky Harbor’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Located just a few miles from downtown Phoenix, the airport is easily reachable from major highways and public transportation options, including the Valley Metro Rail, which connects directly to the airport via the PHX Sky Train. This makes getting to and from the airport simple and quick for millions of residents and visitors every year. Other airports in Arizona, while functional, are often located farther from major population centers or lack the same level of transportation connectivity.

Sky Harbor also excels in the number of flights and destinations it offers. As one of the busiest airports in the country, it serves as a hub for major airlines such as American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. Travelers have access to nonstop flights to over 100 domestic destinations and numerous international locations. This broad range of flight options gives passengers the flexibility to choose convenient departure times and routes, a benefit not matched by smaller airports in the state like Tucson International or Flagstaff Pulliam.

In addition to its connectivity, Sky Harbor offers a wide array of amenities that enhance the travel experience. Passengers can enjoy a diverse selection of dining options, from quick grab-and-go meals to sit-down restaurants featuring local flavors. The airport also boasts an impressive selection of shops, from travel essentials to Arizona-themed souvenirs. Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals, comfortable seating areas, and charging stations add to passenger comfort. Furthermore, the airport showcases rotating art exhibitions and displays, highlighting the culture and creativity of Arizona.

Operational efficiency is another area where Sky Harbor shines. The airport has invested heavily in modernizing its facilities, including streamlined security checkpoints, upgraded baggage claim areas, and the user-friendly PHX Sky Train that connects terminals and parking areas. These improvements help reduce wait times and make navigating the airport straightforward, even for first-time visitors. Its commitment to sustainability, such as energy-efficient building designs and recycling programs, also demonstrates forward-thinking management.

Lastly, the customer service at Sky Harbor helps it live up to its friendly reputation. Staff members and volunteers, known as Navigators, are readily available to assist travelers with directions, flight information, and other needs. This emphasis on hospitality leaves a lasting positive impression on passengers, reinforcing the airport’s role as a welcoming gateway to Arizona.

In conclusion, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s combination of location, connectivity, amenities, operational efficiency, and outstanding customer service sets it apart as the best airport in Arizona. Whether for a short domestic trip or an international journey, it provides travelers with a seamless and enjoyable experience unmatched by other airports...

One of the better and cleaner airports I have been through, and I’ve been through many. There’s plenty of check-in kiosks, porters, and personnel to get you and your luggage on your way. Security-TSA is well run and always moves pretty quickly. There are plenty of great shops 🧢👗, restaurants 🍕🍔🍻🍷and Starbucks ☕️(I think there is one in each concourse). The restrooms are huge and have “vacancy” lights, so you don’t find yourself bending over and peering under the doors for feet. The special needs and pet relief restrooms are exceptional. They also have nursing mother stations in every concourse. The layout is practical, in the shape of a long rectangle, with multiple crossover points between the concourses, so there’s easy access between gates for flight changes. If you are like me and take advantage of the long distances between gates and concourses to get in a quick cardio workout/walk, this is one of the best airports for that. You may even get lucky enough to see (and pet) a few of the Sky Harbor “Navigator” ambassadors! One of their few drawbacks is the distance to the D gates from Concourse A or B can be quite a haul, and as of now, there’s no moving sidewalk between C & D, so be prepared to get your steps in if you are headed to Concourse D. Concourse D also has yet to open shops and restaurants, but there is a huge resting and recharging area there. When I’m in the C Concourse, if I have enough time before departure, I actually hang out in D for the peace and quiet and high number of charging ports. There is a tram that can move you between terminals, and it will eventually go out to the off-site rental car area. But for the time-being, that is the BIGGEST drawback for Sky Harbor. Although they have quite a few transport buses to/from the rental car garage, the sheer number of people headed there means LONG lines to board the bus, and a long time between deplaning, luggage pick up (ALWAYS takes forever) and getting on the road to your next destination. Once Concourse D and the Sky Train loop are complete, I think Sky Harbor will be capable of earning 5 ⭐️s, but until then, it’s a soft 4 from this traveler. (Oh! One more thing, PAY ATTENTION if you are driving into and out of this airport. It’s easy to get turned around or take a wrong turn and end up going the opposite direction you intend to go!). Hope...