This may not be a surprise, but we think Pittsburgh International Airport is the best airport around.

Admittedly, we’re biased.

But so many great things happen here that we can make a pretty compelling argument.

For example, we’re home to the Pennsylvania Air National Guard’s 171st Air Refueling Wing, which was named the best Air National Guard Safety Office in 2020 and has recently earned Outstanding Unit, Non-Commissioned Officer and Safety Officer of the year awards.

The 171st flies the KC-135, the Air Force’s primary jet tanker used to conduct aerial refueling. During a recent training mission at Altus Air Force Base in Oklahoma, Andrew Stover caught this shot of 1st Lt. Tim Mulvihill banking through the Midwestern sky.

But our military partners aren’t the only stars at the airport.

Steelers legend Franco Harris—well, a lifelike figure of him—is the most recognizable face of the airport, greeting travelers arriving at PIT for more than 15 years.

This week, he bid farewell and good luck to Miss Pennsylvania Senior Elementary Mayland Learn as she headed off to Orlando for the Ultimate International Miss Pageant. Her mom Laurel recorded the moment.

Mayland is from Saegertown, Pa.., about 100 miles north of Pittsburgh, and will turn 10 years old next week.

Best of luck, Mayland! And thanks to Andrew and Laurel!

Our readers continue to pass along shots of unique aircraft, international airports, historical events, gorgeous views and even family vacation photos for this feature. We love them! Keep them coming—you can click here for submission guidelines.

Mayland Learn meets Franco Harris’ statue in the Airside Terminal at Pittsburgh International Airport. (Photo submitted by Laurel Learn)