Phones at TPA's Airport Operations Center ring with COVID queries

With a wall of monitors constantly flickering updates and an endless stream of phone calls, the large team inside TPA’s Airport Operations Center plays a vital role in keeping the Airport humming along.

They also play a major role in communicating with the public – from the smallest detail about a flight’s status to critical messages about Airport operations. That’s been especially important during COVID-19.

Since the pandemic came to Florida, roughly 75 percent of all the calls answered by TPA’s dispatchers have been about COVID-19 and how it’s impacting the Airport.

As residents begin to slowly return to the sky, here’s a look at some of the most frequently asked questions we’re seeing from travelers and those thinking about travel:

Is the Airport open?

Yes, we are open. Airports provide essential services to the communities they serve, helping to transport critical supplies and resources.

Do I need to quarantine when I fly into Florida?

Visitors from outbreak hot spots, such as New York State, Connecticut and New Jersey, are required by the state of Florida to self-quarantine for 14 days. For the latest details, please visit the Florida Department of Health.

Will I have to quarantine when I am flying out of Florida?

Those traveling from Florida to certain locations, including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Chicago are currently subject to a 14-day self-quarantine period. For the latest information on NY, NJ and CT, please visit: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory

For the latest information on Chicago, please visit the City of Chicago’s official website.

If I have tested positive for COVID-19 but no longer have symptoms can I fly?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises any individuals who have or think they might have COVID-19 to stay home and contact their health care provider.

Is a COVID-19 test required before coming to or flying from TPA?

No COVID-19 test is required for domestic travel. International travel may require a COVID-19 test, depending on the country. Please see this travel restrictions map for a breakdown of requirements by country.

How do I get a hold of my airline during this time?

Contact information for all of TPA’s airlines can be found on our airline page. Please note that most airlines are experiencing high call volumes.

When are the international flights starting?

International service officially resumed on July 2 with nonstop flights to the Bahamas aboard Silver. We will notify the public when additional international service resumes. To get the latest information, please sign up for air service updates here.

What restaurants are open at this time?

COVID-19 has impacted the hours and operations at many of TPA’s restaurants. For the latest information, please visit our restaurants page.