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Guest Column - PHL Department of Aviation

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Lexy McDowell
Alexandra McDowell
Assistant Director of Government Affairs
 

PHL/PNE: Inclusion in Aviation

Diversity, Equity, and inclusion are embedded within the Department of Aviation.

More than half of the leadership team members are women, as well as our management team and having diverse perspectives helps us better serve all passengers. For example, our restroom renovation program received several design and inclusion awards for supporting travelers with special needs and maternal and infant health.

We’re also focused on building capacity among local businesses, especially as our city prepares to host the 250th birthday of our nation, the FIFA World Cup, and many other high-profile events. The Department recently hosted more than 500 emerging and disadvantaged business participants for the PHL-PNE Business Opportunity Forum. A new Economic Impact Study, finds that Minority, Women, and Disabled Owned Business Enterprise (M/W/DSBE) participation at the airport has been growing since 2020 with $45.6 million (32.5%) of Department of Aviation contracts awarded to M/W/DSBE firms. The PHL concessions program is soaring with $94 million (38%) of gross receipts to diverse firms far exceeding the program’s goal of 21%.

Because of our success, PHL was selected to host the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Northeast Chapter Inclusion in Aviation 2024 conference. This conference brings together airport leaders, industry professionals, and advocates to share strategies for creating more inclusive airports.  

We’ll be showcasing our successful programs, not only in contracting but also the award-winning programs for accessible guest experiences that we have championed. We look forward to the opportunity to network, share ideas, and collaborate on solutions to improve the industry.