Philadelphia Airport Prepares for Influx of Travelers in 2026

Philadelphia International Airport has begun preparations to receive an influx of travelers next year.

Director of Guest Relations Leah Douglas told CBS News Philadelphia that while the airport is accustomed to handling the passenger volume that comes with significant events, "2026 is definitely something else that we're all really excited about and trying to get ourselves ready to welcome the world," Douglas said.

The 250th anniversary celebration of the United States next year is one of several events expected to bring crowds to Philadelphia. Selected March Madness games at the end of March, select matches of the FIFA World Cup in June and July, and the MLB All-Star Game next summer are all expected to bring tens of thousands of travelers through the airport.

In anticipation of the increase in passengers next year, airport officials are focusing on facility improvements. Work crews are busy repainting terminals and replacing floors and ceilings. New restrooms and lactation suites will also be opening in advance of 2026.

In preparation for international travelers, the airport has added flights to Milan and Edinburgh. In December, the airport said that Santo Domingo will be included in the flight offerings. Aeromexico has joined the airport as its most recent airline carrier addition.

To ensure every guest feels welcome at Philadelphia International Airport, officials are continuing efforts to train first-line staff members who comprise the customer care team. Austin Brito-Quinones is one of the airport's personnel who will be able to connect with and assist English- and Spanish-speaking passengers.

"We're trying to improve all the time, and we have fantastic people. It's really all about the people that work here," Douglas said in a statement to CBS News Philadelphia.