Business magazine Fast Company has named Pittsburgh International Airport one of 2020’s Most Innovative Companies in the World, the first time an airport has appeared on the list of industry-changing firms.
Pittsburgh was recognized for its innovations in the travel industry, including making travel easier for people with disabilities by building a best-in-class sensory room for passengers with autism and developing an app in cooperation with Carnegie Mellon University that helps blind travelers navigate the terminal.
According to Fast Company, the recognition honors the businesses making the most profound impact on both industry and culture, showcasing a variety of ways to thrive in today’s fast-changing world.
“At a time of increasing global volatility, this year’s list showcases the resilience and optimism of businesses across the world. These companies are applying creativity to solve challenges within their industries and far beyond,” said Fast Company senior editor Amy Farley.
“This airport has become an ideas lab for concepts that make flying easier for people with disabilities,” Fast Company editors wrote.
The airport has also announced plans to become the first in the world to be completely powered by its own microgrid and has broken ground on real-estate development Neighborhood 91, which aims to be an epicenter of additive manufacturing.
“This is recognition that we are thinking the way the world’s most innovative companies are thinking and we are producing results that rival the world’s best,” said Pittsburgh International Airport CEO Christina Cassotis.
