The bustling airports of Phoenix don't just ferry passengers from point A to B – they're a whopping cash cow for Arizona's economy. A recent study by Arizona State University's W.P. Carey School of Business reveals that the economic impact of the city’s airport system, which includes Phoenix Sky Harbor, Phoenix Deer Valley, and Phoenix Goodyear airports, has shot up nearly 15% since 2016, ringing in at a ground-shaking $44.3 billion a year. According to the City of Phoenix's official announcement, these figures show that not only is Phoenix flying high, but it’s also the top economic engine in the state, supporting about 246,000 jobs.

"The Phoenix Airport System is a critical asset to our community and state, and this new study underscores how vital it is to our economy," said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego in a statement point out the undeniable boom the airports have brought to the region. Yet despite the hurdles thrown by the pandemic, the Airports have continued to thrive in economic output, income to workers, and visitor spending. The total income to workers, which includes wages and perks, is a staggering $14.8 billion.

The surge in visitors using Phoenix Sky Harbor has also pumped up spending by 12% since 2016, reaching $6.5 billion in 2022. It's estimated that domestic and international travelers are forking out big bucks, shelling out an average of $831 and $1,002 per trip, respectively. Talk about a tourism treasure trove, which, all tallied up, contributes a mammoth $7 billion a year to the local scene.

Vice Mayor Debra Stark voiced her pride in the airport system, saying, "We know that Sky Harbor and our general aviation airports have a dramatic positive impact on our economy." Countless jobs stem directly from the humming airport activity, meaning when travelers lounge in those airport amenities, they're doing more than waiting for their flight – they're supporting the community’s lifeblood.

Every day, more than 1,000 aircraft and over 130,000 passengers zip through Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, aptly dubbed America's Friendliest Airport®. This airport alone holds the heavyweight belt for economic stimulation, and the best part? No taxpayer dollars are needed to keep it soaring; it's all funded by airport revenue, the City proudly states.