I have traveled into and out of Pittsburgh International Airport at least 240 times since the new terminal opened in 1992. My first trip was on the terminal’s first day. My wife and I arrived eight hours before our flight’s scheduled departure because we expected the newness of the airport would create havoc. Wrong! On its first day, and to this day, the airport is incredibly efficient. Here’s why:

Our highly efficient runway system often provides the flexibility needed to keep traffic moving when other airports might need to either slow operations or shut down due to weather. Our terminal is efficient, clean and user-friendly so that even when weather causes delays, time spent at our airport is not nearly as stressful as it is at other northeastern airports.

This is why I and many other travelers and taxpayers are concerned over the announced major reconstruction and reconfiguration of the terminal.

No one can dispute that the betrayal of our region by US Airways/American Airlines has dramatically changed the situation at our airport.

Perhaps, though, rather than a monstrous overhaul we should instead focus on measured and ongoing modifications that will maintain our world-class status while enabling the airport authority to reduce fees to encourage existing airlines to expand service while also attracting new airlines flying to new destinations.

Vaughn Gilbert

Elizabeth

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