PHILADELPHIA, PA — With global crowds set to descend on the region in 2026, Philadelphia’s airports are moving early to confront a crime that often hides in plain sight.
On January 9, the Department of Aviation announced the launch of a sweeping public awareness campaign, “Freedom Starts Here,” aimed at preventing human trafficking at Philadelphia International Airport and Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The effort comes as the city prepares to host a slate of high-profile events, including the FIFA World Cup, the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, and the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations, all expected to bring millions of travelers through local terminals.
Officials said airports are a critical front line in the fight against trafficking, where victims and traffickers often move unnoticed through busy, transient environments. The campaign is designed to ensure travelers, airport employees, and business partners know how to recognize warning signs and report suspicious activity quickly.
“Today, we’re pleased to be joined by elected officials and members of the airport and law enforcement communities to launch an important public safety campaign,” said Greg Phillips, chief operating officer for the Department of Aviation. He said the initiative will educate passengers and airport partners on how to spot trafficking and alert authorities before victims are further exploited.
Human trafficking affects more than 25 million people worldwide each year, according to officials, and frequently intersects with transportation hubs. As part of the campaign, Philadelphia International Airport and Northeast Philadelphia Airport are installing new signage in restrooms and high-traffic areas highlighting red flags, including a universal hand signal used by victims to discreetly ask for help.
The initiative also builds on existing training requirements. All airport employees must view a Department of Homeland Security Blue Campaign trafficking awareness video during badge applications or renewals, with the new messaging reinforcing that instruction through ongoing communications and social media outreach.
“Trafficking doesn’t always look like what people expect,” said Haley Frank, a Youth Survivor Advisory Board member with the Support Center for Child Advocates’ Project PROTECT. She said airports offer unique opportunities for intervention because staff and even fellow passengers can play a role in recognizing danger and responding.
State and city leaders emphasized the urgency of the effort as Philadelphia’s global profile rises ahead of 2026.
“It’s very important that we educate as many people as possible,” said Pennsylvania State Senator Regina Young. “If you’re a human being, then you can help in the fight against human trafficking.”
Philadelphia City Councilmember Dr. Nina Ahmad said the campaign reflects the city’s responsibility as a major gateway. She said raising awareness now will make it harder for traffickers to operate during periods of heightened travel and activity.
Law enforcement leaders echoed that message. Captain Margo Alleyne-Parker, commander of the Philadelphia Police Department’s Special Victims Unit, said coordinated efforts and shared information can disrupt trafficking networks while giving survivors a path to safety.
With signage, training, and public messaging expanding across both airports, officials said the goal is simple but urgent: make sure everyone passing through Philadelphia’s terminals knows what to look for, how to respond, and how to help stop exploitation before it continues.
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