Airport parking lot could benefit Foothills fliers

Frequent fliers from Ahwatukee Foothills know their options for long-term parking is fairly limited.

Outside of the East Economy Lot at Sky Harbor, the only other choices require the flier to drive past the airport and backtrack.

The Blue Sky Airport Parking lot, which opened in December, may provide some relief and peace of mind for those Ahwatukee Foothills fliers who want a more convenient option.

Located at the southwest corner of University Drive and the 143, Blue Sky is the only long-term parking facility of its type on the south side of Sky Harbor, according to co-owner Dave Warren.

"Anybody coming from areas (in the East Valley), they would have to pass us on their way to Sky Harbor," Warren said. "It's very convenient for people in Ahwatukee Foothills."

One of those residents, Bo Cornall, said he takes about 25 business trips a year out of Sky Harbor. He has several hang-ups about the East Economy lot that could be satisfied by Blue Sky.

"I park in the East Economy religiously, but I've noticed that the price has doubled in a relatively short period of time," Cornall said. "The other thing is, when the buses come to pick you up, it's inconsistent. They say they are supposed to be 10 minutes apart but there are times when you get two buses back to back or you have to wait a lot longer than 10 minutes."

While Blue Sky's normal price of $9 per day uncovered and $11 per day covered is the same as the East Economy lot, there are coupons that can be printed off of the website, www.ParkBlueSky.com, to reduce the price. There is a coupon to save $1.50 per day and a coupon for three free days.

Blue Sky offers 1,540 parking spots and drivers that provide 24-hour-per-day transportation from the customer's car to the terminal.