Philadelphia International Airport facts for kids

A parked plane at Philadelphia International Airport.

The Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is a very important airport located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It's the largest airport in Pennsylvania and serves the entire Delaware Valley area.

PHL started its journey a long time ago, around 1924 or 1925. Back then, the Pennsylvania National Guard used the area, which was also known as Hog Island, as a practice airfield for planes. Later, it was officially named the Philadelphia Municipal Airport. However, it didn't have a proper building for passengers until about 1940. The airport's name changed to Philadelphia International towards the end of World War II. Since then, the airport has grown a lot and become a major hub for travel.

History of PHL Airport

The story of Philadelphia International Airport begins almost a century ago. In the mid-1920s, the land that is now PHL was first used by the Pennsylvania National Guard. They needed a place for their planes to practice flying and landing. This early use laid the groundwork for what would become a busy international airport.

From Practice Field to Municipal Airport

For many years, the site was just a practice airfield. It was known by some as Hog Island. It wasn't until later that it got the official name, the Philadelphia Municipal Airport. Even with this new name, the airport didn't have a proper terminal building. A terminal is where passengers check in, wait for flights, and pick up their luggage. This important building wasn't ready until around 1940.

Becoming an International Hub

The airport's name changed again near the end of World War II. It became the Philadelphia International Airport. This new name showed its growing importance for flights not just within the country, but also to other parts of the world. Over many decades, the airport has continued to expand. It has added more runways, terminals, and services to handle the increasing number of travelers and flights. Today, PHL is a vital connection point for people traveling for work, holidays, or to visit family.

Images for kids

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  Inside Terminal A West, where travelers wait for their flights.

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  A cool replica of the Liberty Bell made from LEGO bricks, found in Terminal A West.

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  A SEPTA Airport Line train stopping at the Terminal A station, connecting the airport to the city.

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  An aerial view showing the construction of runway 8/26, a key part of the airport's operations.

See also

In Spanish: Aeropuerto Internacional de Filadelfia para niños