PIT Earns ‘Smartest Space Award’ from Uber’s National Airport Honors

Pittsburgh International Airport has been recognized by Uber as one of the nation’s most innovative airports, earning the “Smartest Space Award” as part of the company’s Annual Airport Awards.

The awards honor airports that are redefining the passenger experience through thoughtful design, advanced technology, and efficient use of space—particularly in how they integrate rideshare services into the overall travel journey. PIT was selected for its willingness to work with Uber on the ride-sharing configuration at the recently opened terminal.

“PIT’s transportation team worked with us in setting up the rideshare area at the new terminal,” said Daniel Hammer, Uber’s Manager of Airport Partnerships. “They incorporated our suggestions, making it easier, safer and faster for travelers to connect with their rides.”

Among the examples cited by Hammer was the rideshare pick-up lot’s proximity to the terminal. The wait area also has Uber vehicles parked so their license plates face the direction customers approach, making identification easier and providing an additional level of security. And cars pull forward upon leaving the space instead of backing up into traffic or into the path of other rideshare passengers approaching other vehicles.

“Many travelers rely on rideshare services and receiving the ‘Smartest Space Award’ validates PIT’s efforts to put passengers first,” said Travis McNichols, Chief Operations Officer, Pittsburgh International Airport. “From curb to gate, our new terminal improves efficiency, reduces stress, and creates a more intuitive travel experience. The Uber award validates our efforts to continue to set new standards for how airports can better serve both passengers and the broader community.”

Uber’s Annual Airport Awards evaluate airports across the United States and Canada on key performance indicators such as pickup efficiency, ease of navigation, and rider experience. The “Smartest Space Award” specifically recognizes airports that leverage design and infrastructure to optimize traffic flow and minimize congestion at pickup areas.

This latest honor adds to PIT’s growing reputation as a leader in customer experience innovation. The airport has introduced several customer-focused innovations designed to make travel more seamless, comfortable, and intuitive, including the “We Got You” initiative, which is a passenger-first customer service program designed to provide real-time, on-the-spot help to travelers—especially during stressful or unexpected situations.

On April 16, 2026, Uber presented PIT with its Smartest Space Award recognizing the airport for providing the industry’s top ridership experience for travelers. (Photo by Beth Hollerich)