The City of Philadelphia’s Division of Aviation has signed a new infrastructure agreement with American Airlines and other commercial air carriers operating at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).

The parties have agreed to pursue an $893.8m infrastructure investment plan, which will continue major enhancements and new infrastructure developments at PHL and Philadelphia Northeast Airport (PNE).

The scope of the project covers a $396m investment in airfield and terminal maintenance, in order to enhance passenger services at PHL.

In addition, the airlines intend to spend $200m on the development of a new air traffic control (ATC) tower with an aim to meet a requirement of their 2015 Use and Lease Agreement with PHL to designate a capital project for investment.

PHL chief executive officer Chellie Cameron said: “We appreciate the significant support of American Airlines and all our airline partners as we work together to give our passengers an excellent travelling experience.

“We want our passengers to know that when they choose PHL today, they will receive efficient and comfortable service. As we grow in the future, it will only get better.

"We appreciate the significant support of American Airlines and all our airline partners as we work together to give our passengers an excellent travelling experience."

“Also, the direct and indirect jobs created by these projects will help keep the Philadelphia region thriving.”

Over the next five to seven years, the projects will be managed and delivered by the City of Philadelphia’s Division of Aviation and American Airlines.

The on-going PHL projects will generate approximately $4bn in regional economic output over a period of five years.

In addition, PNE will receive an investment of $26m to upgrade and redevelop the airport’s taxiway and runway, and to modernise the various amenities offered by the airport.

Image: Aerial view of Philadelphia International Airport. Photo: courtesy of Andreas Praefcke.