How You Can See Pittsburgh International Airport From a New Angle

PHOTO BY BETH HOLLERICH

It isn’t every day you get to run on the taxiways at Pittsburgh International Airport, but runners and walkers will have the chance to do exactly that on Sept. 19.

The popular FlyBy 5K and 2‑Mile Fun Run/Walk are returning to PIT this fall. The flat, closed course takes participants along the taxiways at the airport, offering a perspective that officials say is rarely available to the public.

“The FlyBy 5K offers an experience unlike any other on our event calendar, giving runners and walkers the rare chance to be active on the airfield at Pittsburgh International Airport,” Bob Shooer, P3R board president and interim chief executive officer, says in a statement to Blue Sky News. 

This family-friendly event offers two course options: the timed 5K (3.1 miles) and the untimed 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk. Both routes are stroller-friendly, and children under age four can be registered at no cost. 

Registration is required and includes a race shirt, a finisher’s medal and access to a post-race party with food and entertainment. Folks will also be able to participate in a Touch-a-Truck event with PIT equipment, including vehicles from its Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting department.

Proceeds from the FlyBy 5K and 2‑Mile Fun Run/Walk support the Allegheny County Airport Authority Charitable Foundation, which aims to enhance the experiences of travelers passing through PIT while also working within the communities nearest to the airport to better the lives of local residents.

“The races are a testament to our commitment to community engagement at Pittsburgh International Airport. This event is a unique opportunity for the public to connect with the airport in a way that’s fun and meaningful while getting a closer look at our new world-class terminal from the airfield,” Christina Cassotis, CEO of Allegheny County Airport Authority, says in a statement.  “We are thrilled to once again open our airfield for this extraordinary event and invite the community to join us in experiencing the new airport.”

The race kicks off at 10 a.m. on Sept. 19, and participants will have about 1.5 hours to finish the course. Free parking will be available at the Park and Ride behind Sheetz on University Boulevard with shuttles to the start line area.