Airport Experience® News - Retail & Amenities Issue 2023

DIRECTOR’S CHAIR

PASSENGER FOCUS With Major Events Upcoming In Philadelphia,, PHL’s Saeed Is Taking Action

BY C AROL WARD

ditor’s Note: Philadelphia is known as the birthplace of American democracy, and in 2026 the city will be celebrating the 250 th anniversary of the country’s founding. Philadelphia will also be a host city for the 2026 FIFAWorld Cup. With two big events – and many smaller ones – luring visitors to the city, Philadelphia International Airport is putting out its welcome mat. Preparations for 2026 and beyond are underway, even as the airport still grapples with a slow return to pre-pandemic traveler numbers. On December 1, 2022, longtime airport executive Atif Saeed was named CEO of Philadelphia’s Division of Aviation, which includes Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE). He is charged with guiding both airports through their next phase of growth. AXN Editor Carol Ward spoke with Saeed about his vision and plans. E

WARD: You’ve been leading PHL for about nine months. What were your key objectives when joining PHL, and what progress has been made thus far? SAEED: My primary goal when I joined the organization was to make sure that I invested sufficient time meeting with and listening to all the key stakeholders. This includes our own employees and our business partners that provide services to

our mutual guests. It also includes local and regional businesses and leisure industry leaders, elected officials, administrators, local, state and federal levels. I feel that taking the time to understand the existing state of an organization and understand the needs and aspirations of the community are critical to taking what is already a well-run organization to the next level. Additionally, I believe that building

Above: Atif Saeed, CEO, Philadelphia International Airport

Right: Philadelphia is known as the birthplace of the United States, and in 2026 the airport and city will welcome visitors in celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday.

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