PNE boasts two long runways capable of handling a wide range of aircraft sizes. The airport is home to approximately 215 aircraft, including single-engine planes, twins, jets, turboprops, and helicopters. Northeast Philadelphia Airport’s activity has been impressive, says John Brewer, the Airport Manager. “We ended 2023 with 114,775 operations, which made us the third busiest airport in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” he notes. With Philadelphia International being first and Pittsburgh second, this positions Northeast Philadelphia Airport as the busiest general aviation airport in the state. Brewer attributes much of this activity to the robust flight training programs.“We have four flight schools at the airport. Legacy Aviation is the busiest, with over 200 students at any one time. Tailwinds Flight Education and ATP, one of the nation’s largest flight schools, have also been growing steadily.We’re happy about that, as it contributes to addressing the pilot shortage,” he explains. In addition to pilot training, the Aviation Institute of Maintenance also plays a significant role. “Many of their graduates either go on to work with airlines or stay right here at the airport,working with companies like Leonardo, the helicopter production company.” Safety remains a paramount concern, especially with Leonardo’s activities. “Leonardo has its own crash fire rescue since its helicopters need to be turned on and lifted off for the first time here,” Brewer says. The Philadelphia Fire Department supports this effort, with multiple fire companies ready to respond.A series of tabletop and full-scale exercises are planned to ensure preparedness. Northeast Philadelphia Airport is not only about flying; it’s also evolving in terms of infrastructure. An old restaurant, Flatspin, which closed about eight years ago, has been demolished. “As we were tearing the building down, a gentleman who hangared his planes with the FBO approached us. We are now finalizing a lease for him to develop another corporate hangar, complete with an apron and taxiway,” Brewer shares. Although the airport currently lacks a dedicated 175 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06 NORTHEAST PHI LADELPHIA AIRPORT
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