PIT Welcomes Special Olympics Community with an Airport Designed for Everyone

In 2026, Pittsburgh International Airport served as the region’s front door for some of the nation’s biggest sporting events, welcoming fans from across the world for the NFL Draft, the 50th anniversary edition of the Atlantic 10 Men’s Basketball Tournament and the NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships.

Now, another group of world-class athletes arrived in Pittsburgh.

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Team Trials took place in Pittsburgh the week of Sept. 14, bringing hundreds of athletes, Unified partners, coaches, families and volunteers from across the country to compete and support these competitors.

For PIT, welcoming the Special Olympics community is an opportunity to demonstrate the airport’s commitment to creating an experience where every traveler can move through the airport with confidence, comfort and independence.

“We were excited to welcome athletes and coaches from across the country to Pittsburgh for the Special Olympics USA Team Trials,” said Andrew Fee, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships for Special Olympics Pennsylvania. “It’s especially meaningful that many participants began their experience at PIT, an airport that has made accessibility and inclusion a priority.

“That commitment helped create a more welcoming and comfortable experience for all types of travelers. We saw that firsthand this summer when Special Olympics Pennsylvania athletes and coaches traveled through PIT on their way to the USA Games. From check-in to navigating the terminal, our delegation felt supported and welcomed every step of the journey to compete on the national stage.”

An airport designed for everyone

PIT’s internationally recognized commitment to Universal Design aligns closely with the values at the heart of Special Olympics — inclusion, dignity, opportunity and full participation.

Accessibility was integrated into planning, design and operations of the new terminal which opened in 2025. It is designed to serve people of all ages, abilities, languages and travel experiences. From arrival through departure, intuitive wayfinding, accessible amenities, welcoming customer service and comfortable public spaces help create a more seamless experience for all.

Clear, high-contrast signage, large typography and an intuitive terminal layout make navigation easier, while interactive digital maps provide accessible indoor navigation, including audible guidance.

Accessible-height ticket counters, family restrooms, adult changing tables and multiple service animal relief areas support a wide range of travelers. Language assistance, information ambassadors and TSA accessibility resources provide additional tools to help passengers travel confidently and independently.

This commitment led to PIT being the only airport in the world to achieve Universal Design Certification, making the airport an ideal gateway for one of the world’s leading organizations dedicated to inclusion through sport while creating a positive first and last impression of both Pittsburgh and the region.

Heather Burke of Grand Rapids, Michigan, staffs Special Olympics events across the country and understands the importance of an accessible airport for athletes, coaches and families traveling to cheer them on.

“An accessible airport is extremely important,” she said. “Our athletes need surfaces that are easy to roll on and easy to navigate, as well as restrooms with larger stalls. My first impression of Pittsburgh International Airport is very impressive. It will make a great impression on our athletes and everyone traveling with them.”

Design that supports the whole traveler

PIT’s approach to accessibility extends beyond physical access. Universal Design is complemented by place-based and biophilic design to create an environment that is functional, welcoming and restorative.

Abundant natural light, four outdoor terraces, native landscaping and connections to nature provide opportunities to step away from the sometimes strenuous pace of travel. Local materials, public art and architecture inspired by western Pennsylvania create a distinctive sense of place, while additional seating and simplified circulation help passengers move comfortably through the airport.

Together, these elements create an experience designed to support both physical accessibility and emotional well-being.

Additionally, the airport offers multiple other programs and spaces to assist travelers. For seven years, Presley’s Place has been a refuge for neurodivergent travelers, but other amenities also exist, such as nursing rooms, a newly designed Kid’s Play Area, PIT PAWS and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard.

Rather than designing for the “average” traveler, PIT designed for the broadest possible range of human abilities, creating benefits that extend to every passenger.

The result is a more resilient, efficient and welcoming airport that reflects Pittsburgh’s commitment to innovation and inclusion.