Mid-Atlantic - PHL Airport Free Cell Phone Lot Is Finally Open

Starting today, Philadelphia, you have a new, well-lighted and - hopefully - easy-to-find cell-phone waiting lot at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).
A storm of controversy erupted in August when police announced a crackdown and then began issuing tickets up to $147 to drivers parked illegally on ramps leading into the airport to await arriving flights.

At 1 p.m. today, Mayor Nutter and other city and airport officials will cut the ribbon on the 150-spot lot across from the A East-A West parking garage.
The lighted lot is on a paved portion of old Route 291, also known as Industrial Highway, which was closed to through traffic when a runway was lengthened last year. Sometime in January, the lot, which is free and a one-minute drive to the baggage-claim areas, will get three electronic boards announcing flight arrivals.............................. story (http://www.philly.com/philly/business/20091218_New_airport_cell-phone_waiting_lot_to_open.html)

MisterNice

Finally! No more having to wait with the car running on the loops, hoping that someone will pull up behind you, thus giving a lower chance of being ticketed ;)

It has been more than a month since Philadelphia International Airport got a new cell-phone waiting lot.
Do motorists waiting for arriving flights use it? Like it? And, can they find it?

Yes, yes, and yes.

Drivers interviewed among the nearly two dozen parked in the lot yesterday morning were enthusiastic. They said the 150-spot lot is convenient - just a minute's drive to the baggage-claim areas - easy to find, and, best of all, free. "I pick people up at the airport all the time. This is wonderful compared to finding an unlawful spot to park," said Ralph Terry, product manager for an industrial-plastics firm in Willow Grove. "I just followed the sign and came right in here, first time.".................................. story] (http://www.philly.com/inquirer/business/homepage/20100121_Airport_s_cell-phone_lot_a_huge_hit.html)

MisterNice

Drivers interviewed among the nearly two dozen parked in the lot yesterday morning were enthusiastic. Nearly two dozen! Out of 150 spots? Hmmm, maybe PHL needs to do a better job of advertising this. (To be honest, I thought 150 wouldn't be near enough spots.)