From Parking Private Jets to In-Terminal Events, PIT is NFL Draft Ready

Editor’s note: This is part of a series of stories in Blue Sky News detailing what visitors will see and how PIT is preparing for the upcoming NFL Draft. Next week will feature PIT’s new terminal and its impact as the region prepares for one of the largest events in its history.

For the thousands of visitors coming to the Pittsburgh region for the first time for the NFL Draft, PIT’s new terminal as the region’s front door will be their first impression.

The new terminal will welcome visitors, showing off the beauty and vitality of the region, while providing a faster, more efficient travel experience from baggage claim to security screening – all while showcasing Franco Harris’ Immaculate Reception statue. The statue depicting the most iconic play in NFL history is featured on the arrivals level of the new terminal.

“We are excited that this industry-leading terminal will be welcoming visitors from across the country – and our customer service and operations teams are ready are ready to handle the influx of crowds,” said Jim Moorhead, Vice President, Airport Operations.

The airport will be deploying extra teams of volunteer ambassadors and staff throughout the terminal to answer any questions visitors may have, help with wayfinding and share travel information.

The airport is also working with ground transportation providers including rental car providers, Pittsburgh Regional Transit, taxis, Uber, Lyft and others to ensure adequate and smooth transportation. This includes working with the NFL to help facilitate their VIP transportation needs.

Airport officials are anticipating a large volume of private jets and have designated areas at both PIT and Allegheny County Airport (AGC) for additional aircraft parking should it be needed.

“We know from past large-scale events that there will be an influx of private aircraft,” Moorhead said.

Inside the terminal, the airport is working with several businesses and organizations for in-terminal activations, including the NFL and VisitPITTSBURGH, which will include a mock draft stage and podium for photos and a Fan Zone. This will be set up on arrivals near the VisitPITTSBURGH counter and Franco Harris statue depicting the Immaculate Reception.

Additional in-terminal events include:

• Pittsburgh Brewing Company and McLaughlin Distillery activations with samples for travelers of age.
• Dick’s Sporting Goods fan experience area on airside arrivals.
• Bud Light fan experience zone in the arrivals atrium area with information on every NFL team.
• ISS distribution of football items.
• Food, drink and shopping specials during draft week from concessionaires.

Last month, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra activated a video screen in the Center Core area welcoming visitors to the region.

“This is the region’s front door and when visitors land, they’ll know they are in Pittsburgh,” Moorhead said.