Philadelphia International Airport is keen to position itself as a strong contender among U.S. airports by improving facilities, streamlining transit processes, and fostering strategic airline partnerships. Edgar Vesga, MPR, CMI, Director of Air Service Development and Cargo Services, Philadelphia International Airport, spoke to Disha Shah Ghosh at length about his plans.
1. What are the growth numbers of Philadelphia International Airport in the past 2 years from India? Enumerate also on the pre-Covid traffic from India.
– India is projected to be Philadelphia’s third largest overseas international tourism source market in 2024, with an estimated 62,500 visitors, gaining a 6.3% increase year over year.
2. How important is India as a source market for Philadelphia considering the country is a major driver of inbound traffic to the USA?’
– India is a crucial market for inbound travel to the USA, and Philadelphia is no exception. The city’s world-class universities, thriving business ecosystem, and rich cultural landscape make it a compelling destination for Indian travelers. Additionally, the Indian diaspora in Philadelphia and the broader Pennsylvania-New Jersey region significantly contributes to VFR travel.
– With India emerging as one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets globally, Philadelphia is strategically positioning itself to attract Indian visitors by enhancing accessibility, strengthening partnerships with airlines and travel trade, and amplifying destination awareness through targeted marketing efforts.
3. Are you in talks with carriers from India to secure more scheduled flights?
– While there are no direct flights between India and Philadelphia yet, we continue to engage in discussions with key airline partners, including both full-service and Gulf carriers, to explore potential connectivity options.
– Given Philadelphia’s strategic location on the U.S. East Coast and its proximity to major hubs like New York and Washington, enhancing air connectivity from India is a key focus. We are working closely with airlines that serve major Indian gateways and advocating for more seamless one-stop options to PHL.
4. What are your expansion plans at a time when air travel is extremely, competitive and Gulf carriers offering major gateways for Asian passengers?
– Our goal is to position PHL as a strong contender among U.S. airports by improving facilities, streamlining transit processes, and fostering strategic airline partnerships.
5. How are you engaging with the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau to tap the Indian tourist?
– PHL Airport collaborates closely with the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) to promote the city as a must-visit destination for Indian travelers.
– Key initiatives include:
o Media & Trade Engagements: Active participation in Brand USA India Sales and Media Mission, Educations, media roundtables in India to highlight Philadelphia’s unique offerings.
o Digital & Social Campaigns: Through targeted campaigns, we showcase Philadelphia’s cultural, culinary, and historical appeal to Indian travelers.
o Partnerships with Tour Operators: We work with leading Indian travel trade partners to integrate Philadelphia into their U.S. itineraries.
o Fams: Engaging Indian travel agents and media through FAMs ensures firsthand experience of Philadelphia, helping them sell the destination better.
6. How can an Indian tourist best use the Philadelphia Airport as entry point into the USA while exploring other destinations?
– Philadelphia is the second largest city on the U.S.’s East Coast and is located in the country’s eighth largest Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), with a population of nearly 6.3 million people.
– For Indian travelers entering the U.S., Philadelphia serves as a convenient, less crowded entry point with seamless onward connections to other destinations.
– Key advantages include:
– Strategic Location: PHL is within easy reach of major East Coast destinations like New York City, Washington, D.C., and Boston, making it a practical entry hub for multi-city itineraries.
– Efficient Customs & Immigration: Compared to busier U.S. airports, PHL offers quicker immigration processing times, and on time arrivals ensuring a smooth arrival experience.
– Diverse Travel Experiences: From historical landmarks like UNESCO World Heritage site Independence Hall to its vibrant culinary and arts scene, Philadelphia is a perfect first stop for Indian visitors before exploring the rest of the U.S.
– 2026: In 2026, Philadelphia will host the PGA Championship, FIFA World Cup, America’s 250th celebration and Major League Baseball All-Star Game.
