Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), American Airlines, MarketPlace PHL and award-winning hospitality group OTG held the grand opening for PHL's new Terminal B. The grand opening finds the project on schedule for its phased 18-24 month roll-out plan.
The $30 million investment in Terminal B includes everything from new and improved technology offerings, to local chef-driven restaurant concepts, to immersive, free-flowing design and more.
"American is excited about the transformation we have seen Terminal B undergo over the past months," said Olympia Colasante, American's Vice President – PHL Hub Operations. "It is a pleasure to walk through the new Terminal B, between the amazing new restaurants, waiting areas and shops. I wouldn't be surprised to see our passengers arriving at this terminal a little earlier than normal for their flights in the future."
The team implementing the innovative changes at PHL Terminal B was led by OTG in partnership with the airline, airport and MarketPlace PHL.
"When I got into this business, I always looked forward to the day I could come back to reinvent my hometown airport at this scale," said Rick Blatstein, OTG's Founder & CEO. "Today, that dream becomes a reality. I couldn't be prouder of our team, who have done an amazing job here at PHL."
Today's grand opening event at the terminal includes a stage presentation and ribbon cutting with Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, followed by concept tastings and chef demos by Nicholas Elmi, Erin O'Shea and Stalin Bedon. A small gathering of media and stakeholders will also take place.
"Today's grand opening is an opportunity for us to show some of the results of our hard work over the past several years," said PHL CEO Chellie Cameron. "Terminal B reflects the spirit and the tastes of our great city, and I know our passengers will enjoy spending time here."
The newly-designed terminal includes a new, wider range of shopping and dining options for travelers. New concepts have already begun to open along with OTG's award-winning CIBO Express Gourmet Markets. The markets feature locally sourced and inspired items from small businesses throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding area.
"With the incredible dining experience and market options OTG is bringing to the table, travelers will need to leave a little extra room in their bags and stomachs before leaving for their destinations" said Clarence LeJeune, Operating Partner, MarketPlace PHL, LLC and President/CEO of LeJeune and Associates, LLC. "We are excited for PHL passengers to experience it – we know they are going to react just like we did – they are going to love it."
Leading-Edge Technology: Now, travelers waiting for a flight can access more than 1,000 iPads positioned throughout restaurants and gate lounges. Driven by OTG's award-winning flo® technology, the iPads allow guests to track their flight, browse the web, play games, and order food and amenities from intuitive visual menus, all delivered directly to their seat. Customers also have access to more than 2,000 power & USB ports with the redesigned terminal seating.
