News and resources for airport employees.
News and resources for airport employees.
Elijah Cooper
Elijah Cooper Brings Friendly, Welcoming Service to Every Shuttle Ride
Elijah Cooper (he/him) with SP Plus Corporation was nominated by Raena, a PDX traveler.
"Eli clearly cares about doing a job well. It was moving to witness his pure energy and enthusiasm in the way he carried himself and cared for the riders. He was respectful, enthusiastic, informative and, quite frankly, inspiring.
He spent time as we got on the bus to welcome us, gave a wonderful overview of the highlights for visitors to Oregon, safety and service tips for those parked in the parking lot, a little bit of personal life coaching – all with touches of humor.
I have taken the shuttle many times and encountered many conscientious drivers, but Eli stands head and shoulders above the rest. I hope you will let him know he was appreciated and recognized."
Want to learn more about PDX People recognition? Check out the recognition programs and read about past winners on the PDX People website. You can also nominate an employee who embodies the PDX People values and serves as a shining example of great customer service for next quarter – submit a nomination now.
Nominate a PDX Employee
Exterior view of the PDX main terminal.
What's New with PDX Next: Concourse B and PDX Next Forum Updates
Concourse B: The passenger re-routes in Concourse B end today, Monday, Dec. 23. And, as we bring the next 40% of PDX to life, we'll have similar changes coming to the D/E side starting Wednesday, Jan.8. We'll keep you posted on those changes in this newsletter, on the digital screens and on the employee website.
December Forum: There's no PDX Next forum in December, but you can look forward to the January edition with the latest construction updates, an early look at architectural renderings and behind-the-scenes photos and videos!
Looking for more PDX Next information? We're keeping you in the know on what's new on the PDX People website. Have questions or suggestions about construction? Email hello@pdxnext.com or call the construction hotline at 503.460.4339. 
Travelers walking down the Concourse Connector at PDX.
Get Ready for Busy Travel Days at PDX
PDX is officially bustling for the holidays with more than 900,000 travelers expected between Dec. 19 and Jan. 5! If you have friends and family who are traveling, pass along these tips: Plan to arrive 2 hours before domestic flights or 2.5 hours for international ones, and don't forget that 5 to 9 a.m. is our busiest time of day. Visit the PDX parking page for live updates before heading to the airport...or skip the hassle and take the MAX Red Line. And, if they haven't flown in a while, encourage them to check out the airport map to get familiar with the latest layout and new main terminal before they arrive. Finally, don't forget our many accessibility resources, and wheelchair dispatch is just a call away at 503.460.4300.
TSA wait time screens at PDX
PDX Adds New Technology to Display TSA Wait Times
If you have friends and family heading to the airport, let them know to check out our pre-security flight information displays that are launching this weekend to see TSA wait times in English and Spanish. By showing the estimated wait times at the B/C and D/E security checkpoints – for both general boarding and TSA PreCheck – travelers can find out which checkpoint will get them through security quicker. The system also allows TSA to adjust staffing and customer service to help better balance the checkpoint lanes. How does it all work? Using precise LiDAR scanners to track movement around and within the checkpoints, real-time estimates are generated based on the number of people in the area and how fast the lines are moving. Wait time is calculated from the time a person enters the line until they’re through the checkpoint and have picked up their personal belongings and luggage.
Installation of art in the new PDX gallery.
PDX’s Opens New Mezzanine Gallery 
Take a closer look as we install the first exhibition in the new Mezzanine Gallery at PDX. The exhibition celebrates Portland artist Yoonhee Choi, featuring her earlier works and a behind-the-scenes look at how she created “Between,” the stunning glass installation in the new main terminal. This peaceful gallery is the perfect spot to unwind, get inspired and explore the stories behind the art when you need a break from a busy airport. And don’t miss what’s next! Each artist featured in the main terminal will have their own six-month show in the gallery, with Sanford Biggers up next in May 2025.
Car at the new fast charging station in the rental car area.
PDX Powers on Fast Charging Stations for Rental Cars
This just in: PDX is among the first major airports with a DC fast charger system available for on-site rental car partners to use. The technology – a ChargePoint Express Plus 1000 – charges electric vehicles approximately eight times faster than a standard Level 2 charger, which helps our partners expand their EV fleets and get arriving travelers on the road quickly. The system is located in our Quick Turnaround Facility, and 20 vehicles can be plugged in at the same time, with 10 actively charging. The overhead configuration – which is a first for an airport – made it more efficient and cost effective to run conduit and wiring to the units, while also reducing the risk of damage by having them out of the way of vehicles.
Straightway Cocktails at PDX
Fast Company: Portland Filled Its New Terminal with Mom-and-Pop Shops – Every Airport Should Do the Same
In this feature, Fast Company explores one of the things that makes PDX different from most other airports: our direct leasing model, which means the Port manages individual leases for each concession, rather than hiring an outside operator to oversee them. "It’s [our] desire to keep revenues local and make sure the brand authenticity is carried through to the customer experience," Port of Portland Concessions Development Manager Abby Carey shared. With the opening of the new main terminal, more than 80% of the stores in PDX are now locally owned. And two of the new local shops in the main terminal – PiPH and Orox – talk about how the exposure at PDX has translated to growth for their business.
The Apricots perform at PDX.
The Apricots Play Live at PDX
Our airport has always been known for its music program, but here's something new: The Apricots Live at PDX. Last month, OPB filmed the Portland-based indie-folk-rock band at PDX for an episode of OPB Presents Northwest Music, a digital series showcasing local musicians at cool locations. Take a listen to hear how their music incorporates vocal harmonies, groovy melodies and lyrics that speak to the human condition.
PDX employees enjoying treats on ugly sweater day.
PDX in Pictures
Last week we celebrated at PDX with treats and hot cocoa for PDX People. It was also the perfect opportunity to show off – and vote for – our favorite ugly holiday sweaters! Angela Nemjo with Southwest Airlines won best ugly sweater at PDX for her festive Buddy the Elf look.
As PDX bustles with travelers, airport employees are there to greet them with a friendly smile, use their knowledge to help passengers navigate new routes, and respectfully provide top notch inclusive service. Airports run 24/7 and that means so do PDX People. Thanks to everyone who works daily to keep us running, and an especially big thank you to everyone working this holiday season!
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