The pandemic has changed some demographics at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Pre-pandemic, almost 70% were leisure travelers, now it’s more than 80%. Business travelers are down nearly 15%. Sky Harbor is also seeing more passengers between 18 and 35 years old and fewer travelers over the age of 55.
The airport also reports a decline in people visiting restaurants, bars and coffee shops. While the top reason travelers give is not needing food or beverages, some passengers have complained about places not being open later in the day and evenings.
The private companies that operate those businesses say they’re struggling to hire and keep employees. On Monday, members of Unite Here Local 11 went on strike over pay, insurance and retirement benefits, impacting locations in Terminals 3 and 4.
