Abe the Pilot is the official representative for Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE). He is a helpful character who not only promotes the Airport, but also provides tips and advice for travelers on Airport services and security requirements.
He enjoys traveling with the four commercial airlines that serve ABE: Allegiant, American, Delta, and United. From ABE, he can fly nonstop to 14 exciting destinations including Chicago, Atlanta, Nashville, Charlotte, and Orlando.
Abe knows that a great life and great travel experiences are Made Possible in Lehigh Valley.
Q: How is everything going at Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE)?
Abe: 2020 was not a smooth flight. We faced a lot of turbulence due to COVID-19 and restrictions on travel. The good news is that we are flying again in 2021! Passengers are buzzing around the terminal complex with excitement as they get ready to travel to their destinations. Our passenger traffic is approaching levels we had back in 2019.
Q: What has the Airport done to promote passenger safety?
Abe: Passenger safety is always the highest priority. We developed a special health and safety program during the pandemic – it’s called Fly Safe with ABE. I am proud to say I had a big role in that program, sharing important messages with our travelers and Airport staff. As we begin traveling again, ABE will continue to use protocols and procedures that assure passengers it is safe to fly with ABE.
Q: Can you tell us a little bit of the Airport’s history?
Abe: Our takeoff occurred way before I landed my job at ABE. The Airport has been serving the Lehigh Valley since 1929. Our original 9,600 square-foot hangar built in August 1929 is still standing. The first commercial flight was in 1935 aboard United Airlines, which is one of the four airlines serving ABE today. Many historical figures have visited ABE. We hosted famous aviator Amelia Earhart during her cross-country flight in 1929. Presidential candidate John F. Kennedy spoke to a packed audience at ABE during his 1960 campaign. And we were one of only seven airports in the world that hosted Solar Impulse 2, a solar powered plane, during its around-the-world flight in 2016.
Q: What is your favorite ABE destination?
Abe: I love flying from my neighborhood airport because it offers plenty of opportunities to connect nonstop to major cities for an important business trip or an unforgettable vacation. You can explore the Music City (Nashville), the Windy City (Chicago), and the Motor City (Detroit). You can find fun in the Florida sun (Orlando, St. Petersburg, Fort Lauderdale, Punta Gorda, or Sarasota). You can hit the links in Myrtle Beach, enjoy the charm of Savannah, and take in the historic sites of Washington. My advice is to let ABE be your ticket to see them all.
Q: What is your favorite part about flying home to the Lehigh Valley?
Abe: Arriving at ABE! From the moment I step off the plane, the terminal is filled with authentic Lehigh Valley sights and showcases of our amazing attractions. I really like that it takes just a few minutes to get through baggage claim, exit the parking lot, and walk through my front door. It is so convenient!
Q: What do you like most about life in the Lehigh Valley?
Abe: It’s the people and sense of community. The Lehigh Valley is built on strength, resiliency, and spirit. Presented with any challenge, the Lehigh Valley comes together with a bond that can’t be broken. Lehigh Valley International Airport is proud to serve the business and vacation travelers of the region and appreciates the support of the local organizations and businesses that have taken the pledge to Fly Local.
Live Like a Local
Favorite Restaurant: I love all kinds of different foods from across the Lehigh Valley! Some of my favorites include Grille 3501, Zest, Copperhead Grill, and Yocco’s!
Outdoor Recreation: I love attending games and events at Coca Cola Park and the PPL Center, attending races and airshows at Pocono Raceway, and enjoying authentic German food, live music, and dachshund races at ArtsQuest’s Oktoberfest!