News and resources for airport employees.
News and resources for airport employees.
Rita Armbrust
Rita Armbrust Brings Experience and Empathy to Customer Service
Rita Armbrust with Alaska Airlines was nominated by a PDX traveler.
"I travel for business constantly – about 10 times a month, both domestically and internationally. While I was in baggage claim, I was beyond impressed with how Rita handled herself. It stood out to me and to the group I was traveling with.
During the government shutdown, many travelers were missing flights, and tensions were high. Rita was kind yet firm, and she moved straight to solutions when responding to frustrated travelers.
I overheard her mention that she’s worked at Alaska for over 25 years, and in my opinion, Rita deserves something special. I’ve never written a review for an airline employee before, but I hope Rita knows that her attitude and presence did not go unnoticed."
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
Baggage claim
What's New with PDX Next: Northside Electrical Shutdown
Northside Electrical Shutdown: On Tuesday, Feb. 10, through Friday, Feb. 13, during the early morning hours of 1 to 5 a.m., there will be planned electrical shutdowns of the north escalators, main lighting in baggage claim, and carousels 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. All elevators and emergency lighting in baggage claim will remain operational throughout the shutdowns.
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. 
Screenshot of the PDX concessions' page.
Order Ahead, Skip the Line
Order up! When lunchtime rolls around at PDX, most people would prefer to grab food and enjoy the break instead of spending it in line. There’s now an easy way to see which concessions offer mobile ordering and you can place your order right from the FlyPDX website. Just head to the Shops and Dining page, filter by Mobile Order, and choose where you want to eat. Each concession’s profile includes a link to their mobile ordering page, so you can order ahead and pick it up when it’s ready.
All user restrooms at PDX
Be Knowledgeable:
All-User Restrooms
Did you know the airport has seven single stall and two multi-stall all-user restrooms? Sometimes called gender neutral or all-gender restrooms, these facilities can be used by anyone, regardless of their gender identity and expression. Single stall restrooms are also helpful when it comes to caregiving, whether for adults or kids. Learn more about accessibility at the airport and visit the PDX People training page to find out how you can help make our airport welcoming to all travelers.
Graphic of a heart and a colorful stripe in green, yellow and read. Text reads
Black History Month:
The Human Heart,
The Historical Heart
As we celebrate Black History Month this February, we honor the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Black people who have long been the heartbeat of our communities. From care and advocacy to creativity and leadership, Black communities have modeled what it means to look out for one another in mind, body, and spirit.
February is also American Heart Month, a time to reflect on heart health and recognize that caring for our physical well-being is an act of self-love and community care. Take a moment to ask yourself: How can you contribute to healthy heart conditions? Is there a conversation you need to have to feel lighter? You can also try a new heart healthy recipe, take a walk, or try yoga. When we are healthy, supported, and thriving, our communities beat stronger together.
Fire Chief Rob Mathis, Firefighter Justin Heidmann, and Firefighter Lieutenant Frank Russo
Fire Chief Rob Mathis, Firefighter Justin Heidmann, and Firefighter Lieutenant Frank Russo
Portland Airport Fire & Rescue Earn Award
On Wednesday, Portland Airport Fire and Rescue was honored with a Special Unit Citation Award from the Gresham Fire Department for our firefighters’ assistance with the Purcell Tire Retreading Fire in August 2025. The four-alarm fire required a response from multiple agencies, who worked closely together to battle the complex blaze fueled by triple-digit temperatures, high winds, and hazardous materials.
Congratulations to the Portland Airport Fire and Rescue team and all our regional partners who work hard every day to keep our people and places safe.
K9 Jacky and Handler Officer Charlie Barry in San Francisco for the Superbowl
PDX in Pictures
K9 Jacky has officially gone pro!
Jacky and her handler, Officer Charlie Berry, were in Santa Clara last week, repping PDX and the Transit Police Division at the Super Bowl. Jacky used her all-star nose to help keep the big game safe...all while having a ball (literally and figuratively). While the big game is now behind us, follow @K9Jacky on Instagram for more adventures with this MVP!
Stay Connected
Twitter Facebook Instagram YouTube
PDX People Website
Manage my subscriptions
PDX People Communications
Manage your preferences | Opt out using TrueRemove™
Got this as a forward? Sign up to receive our future emails.
View this email online.
P.O. Box 3529
Portland, OR | 97208-3529 US
This email was sent to .
To continue receiving our emails, add us to your address book.
Subscribe to our email list.