Tampa International Airport travelers headed to or from Airsides A and C will see that both the Red and Blue automated shuttles are back on track.

After extensive guideway renovation and technology testing, TPA’s signature people-movers officially opened to the public at the end of August. The Red shuttles were cleared for passengers a few months after the Blue shuttles were commissioned in the spring.

The brand-new Innovia APM 300 R shuttle cars – in Red and Blue mated pairs at each Airside like the last shuttles – are the third generation of automated transports to and from the Main Terminal since TPA opened in 1971. The cars are manufactured by Alstom in the same Pittsburgh-area production facility as the old shuttles.

While the ride will be familiar to TPA’s travelers, the new shuttles feature improved lighting, video information screens, and doors with obstacle-detection systems.

TPA is the first airport in the world to have these shuttles paired with Alstom’s new proprietary operating system, along with new electrical running gear and concrete guideways. The previous generation of shuttles were installed in the 1990s and ran for well over 1 million miles each.

Airside E is getting the same upgrades, with the Red shuttle cars now installed and the new Blue cars coming soon. Work there is scheduled to be completed later this year.

The guideway rehabilitation and shuttle car replacement for Airsides A and C, which includes design and running surfaces, plus eight cars with their controls and signaling systems, cost $61 million. The Airside E replacement project, with four more cars plus guideways and software system, costs an additional $30 million. The projects are funded with bonds and state grants.

New cars also have been ordered for the forthcoming Airside D. Airside F, which has the newest cars of all the Airsides, is due to get new shuttles in the future.

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Golden says while he's worked on multiple public facing projects within the airport environment, this was his first opportunity to work on a science museum exhibit.

“It was very rewarding and a lot of fun,” Golden said. “From collaborating with the museum and Sotereon, to working with our Communication team on refining and perfecting material for the audience, to seeing the interactive portion come to life, it has been such a great experience.” 

The exhibit also highlights the growing need for STEM talent across aviation and other industries, encouraging young visitors to imagine new possibilities and maybe even pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Golden said MOSI’s reach makes the exhibit especially meaningful, noting that the museum welcomes more than 300,000 visitors each year. “That’s over 300,000 opportunities to inspire to innovate, think freely, and dare to venture into the unknown,” he said. “I hope this exhibit gives someone the courage to be different and try what hasn’t been tried before.” 

The new display was unveiled to the public this week at MOSI.

The updates, adopted at the August HCAA Board Meeting, apply to the Authority’s non-federal Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and federal Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) programs.

A major milestone in this effort is the launch of in-house certification for the SBE and SBEC programs. Certification determines whether a business is eligible to participate, while the program itself creates a path to real Airport opportunities.

This change also establishes one small business certification standard across the Authority’s federal and non-federal programs.

Under the updated approach, SBE and SBEC certifications will use the same federal SBA business size standards based on NAICS codes, along with the same owner personal net worth limit of $2.047 million used in the DBE and ACDBE programs.

Businesses that are recertified as DBEs or ACDBEs by Florida Unified Certification Program certifying agencies will automatically qualify for SBE or SBEC certification.

For more information about the programs and how to become certified, visit HCAA’s Policies and Programs page on the TPA website or contact BusinessOpportunity@TampaAirport.com.

Tampa Bay business owners interested in business opportunities at Tampa International Airport have a couple of chances to learn more with a pair of information sessions next week.

TPA’s award-winning Concessions program will be holding a free public information session at St. Pete Athletic, 680 28^th St. S in St. Petersburg, at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8. The event will be held in the South Wing Grove Lounge.

This free event will feature a presentation on the Airport’s upcoming Concessions Redevelopment Program, which will include information on when food and beverage or retail contracts will be open, and how businesses will be able to apply for a spot. No registration for this event is required.

Then on Thursday, September 10, TPA will host a public networking event designed to connect Concessions Primes and area banks with local and small businesses interested in future opportunities at TPA. Primes manage and operate a major block of food and retail offerings. 

This free event starts at 2 p.m. in TPA’s Main Terminal Event Space on the third floor between the shuttle stations for Airsides E and F. Interested businesses can register for that event here.

For more information on the Concessions team, go to TPAConcessions.com.

Tampa International Airport and its tenant partners are searching for qualified applicants to fill positions ahead of the busy holiday travel season at an Airport-wide Hiring Day event on September 23.

Seventeen employers, including aviation maintenance and repair company Airborne, parking services provider ABM and food-service company SSP America are among the partners accepting applications to fill positions at retail shops, restaurants, ground handling services and other businesses at TPA. These employers combined are searching for candidates for more than 260 open positions.

The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority, which operates TPA and Hillsborough County's three General Aviation airports, also will be looking to fill several jobs. The Authority is especially looking for Florida-certified law enforcement officers to join the Tampa International Airport Police Department. HCAA job openings may be viewed here.

Some companies will conduct on-site interviews and applicants may be hired on the spot, so job seekers should bring two forms of identification. Spanish and ASL assistance will be available.

TPA’s Airport-wide Hiring Day will be from 9 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Sept. 23, in the Main Terminal Event Space between the shuttle stations for Airsides E and F.

No RSVP is required to attend the event. Free parking will be available in the Economy Parking Garage and participants can take the SkyConnect train to the Main Terminal for the event.

Watch for updates at www.tampaairport.com/HiringDay

If you’re coming to Tampa International Airport in the next few weeks and are being dropped off at the Red Side of the Main Terminal, please be aware there’s going to be a short, temporary detour.

A pavement resurfacing project will affect the Red Departures drive to the Ticketing level beginning August 31 at 7 a.m. The project is similar to work done on the Blue Departures drive last summer.

Work crews will be removing and replacing the traffic coating on all four lanes of the drive as part of scheduled maintenance to ensure optimal facility quality and traffic flow. The closure is scheduled to last until mid-October.

Guests who are being dropped off for their flights at Red Side airlines will be directed to instead drive to and get out at the Red Express Curbsides to enter the Main Terminal.

Signage and Airport staff will direct travelers through the building to reach the Ticketing level on the second floor of the Main Terminal. Curbside bag check-in will be available at the Red Express Departures drive.

Travelers who are not checking bags and already have their boarding passes may head up the Red Express escalators or elevators to the third level to reach the shuttle to their Airside.

Red Side airlines include:

• Air Canada
• Alaska Airlines
• Avelo Airlines
• Breeze Airways
• British Airways
• Discover Airlines
• Edelweiss Air
• Frontier
• Southwest Airlines
• Sun Country Airlines
• WestJet

Check here for a full list of which side each airline is on.

During its May 2026 meeting, the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board of Directors approved a $1.2 million contract to Restocon Corp. to perform the work for the Red Departures rehabilitation project. 

After conducting a full evaluation of the Transportation Security Administration’s private screening partnership program, TSA Gold+, Tampa International Airport has elected to continue its checkpoint screening operations with its existing federal TSA officers.

Earlier this year, the TSA approached TPA officials with the concept of TSA Gold+, a program that gives TSA oversight of a private company and workforce to conduct screening operations, rather than federal TSA officers. The Airport opted in to evaluate the TSA Gold+ program with the goal of preventing disruptions from future government shutdowns, improving access to the latest screening technology, and enhancing the passenger experience.

Opting in allowed TPA officials to learn about program details and provisions, including security, workforce, technology, financial, and legal considerations, before moving forward.

The Airport conducted an extensive review and evaluation over several months, which resulted in its decision to keep screening operations exclusively with the TSA, and not adopt the Gold+ model.

“We approached Gold+ carefully and deliberately, with a focus on our passengers, employees, airline partners, and long-term operational excellence,” TPA CEO Michael Stephens said. “We are thankful to the TSA for bringing us the opportunity to learn more about a program with the potential to enhance operational resiliency and innovation, and to reach an informed decision.” 

“We have worked closely with our TSA team through record passenger growth, severe weather, federal funding disruptions, and peak travel periods. We value their professionalism and commitment to security and service, and look forward to continuing our strong partnership,” Stephens said.

Travelers awaiting an interview with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer to complete their enrollment for the Global Entry program will have a chance to schedule a slot at a special five-day event at Tampa International Airport this month.

This is the first CBP mass-enrollment event at TPA this year and will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. from Monday, August 24, through Friday, August 28, in TPA’s Main Terminal Event Space on Level 3 between the shuttles for Airsides E and F.

Global Entry applicants who are conditionally approved may schedule the interview portion of the process to complete their enrollment in the program. Applicants may select “Tampa International Event Space” as their interview location.

This event is also open to those who have “pending” Global Entry status or walk-ups who need help with their application. CBP officers will assist when they have availability to do so.

Global Entry is one of the Department of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler programs, which provide modified screening and expedited clearance for approved members.

Those travelers may skip Customs lines when returning to the U.S. from abroad, using automated kiosks at eligible airports to complete their arrival procedure. Approved Global Entry travelers also are enrolled in the Transportation Security Administration’s PreCheck program. Enrollment in Global Entry must be renewed after five years.

To apply for Global Entry, travelers should go to CBP's website: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry

Applicants must first undergo a rigorous background check, then must complete an in-person interview. Scheduling these interviews can often take weeks or even months, as the number of enrollment center locations offering interview times is limited.

After the application is complete and travelers have paid the fee, they will receive an email telling them they are conditionally approved and be directed to make an appointment with a Global Entry office. Those who have already scheduled a future interview date may reschedule the interview to the five-day event if they prefer to speed up the process.

CBP officers will be in place to conduct interviews during the enrollment event, with the officers working to accommodate multiple interviews every 10 minutes. That means approximately 1,200 potential interview slots are available during the five-day TPA event.

Conditionally approved Global Entry applicants who miss this opportunity may still take advantage of CBP’s Enrollment on Arrival interview process. Applicants may complete their required interviews upon their return from international travel at participating airports.

For more information about this event, please contact CBP by using this email: TampaTTPinformation@cbp.dhs.gov. 

[Photo: U.S. Customs and Border Protection]

Phoebe's 4th “Bird-thday” bash: Travelers flying in or out on the big day can catch Phoebe's birthday celebration in person from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. Featuring a flamingo stilt walker, a steel drum player, and a custom birthday cake, this day-of celebration is a little something extra for passengers already making their way through the TPA that day.

A few other happenings are also planned on August 25:

• The Shoppes at Bayshore: From 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., this location will feature local-artist face painting and flamingo-shaped balloon art.
• Dylan's Candy Bar: Travelers can enjoy a complimentary pink flamingo gummy sample and limited-edition sticker, while supplies last.
• Mindworks: Passengers who purchase an Asobu Bestie Bottle can enjoy free custom name etching, while supplies last.
• P.F. Chang's: Hungry for something pink? P.F. Chang's will offer complimentary pink macarons and mini pink cupcakes, while supplies last. And, they'll also offer custom face painting!

The celebration doesn't stop there. Phoebe's birthday month kicked off August 1 and runs all the way through August 31, with special happenings taking place throughout TPA. From custom punch at several restaurants to flamingo straws at Qdoba to cake pops at TPA's Café con Leche and Buddy Brew locations, be sure to be on the lookout for special pink items if you stop by participating Airport shops and restaurants during this month.

Since her arrival, Phoebe has become one of the most recognizable and photographed spots at TPA. She's also more recently known for her antics on TPA's social media accounts. This year, her birthday celebration is a chance for the Tampa Bay community — travelers, employees, and locals alike — to celebrate right along with her.

Tampa International Airport announced Thursday that the secure identity company, CLEAR, is expected to launch at its security screening checkpoints this fall.

The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board approved a contract at today’s board meeting to bring CLEAR+ Lanes and automated eGates to each of TPA’s four Airside terminals for the first time.

CLEAR+ Members will be able to enter dedicated CLEAR+ lanes and move through an eGate — an automated gate that verifies identity in under five seconds by matching a traveler's face to their ID and boarding pass – before they move directly to physical screening.

Bringing CLEAR+ to Tampa International Airport will enable travelers to move on to screening faster, improving the security screening checkpoint process and improving the overall airport experience.

CLEAR's expedited identity verification experience provides a faster and more predictable checkpoint journey to TPA's travelers, and the partnership will further enhance TPA's reputation for innovation and customer service.

"Tampa International Airport is proud to welcome CLEAR to our security screening checkpoints, expanding the range of innovative services available to our travelers,” Airport CEO Michael Stephens said. “This is a convenience that many of our passengers have long requested, and we're excited to partner with CLEAR to provide a faster, more seamless airport experience. By giving travelers another efficient way to move through security, we're continuing our commitment to delivering the exceptional customer service and convenience that have become hallmarks of America's Favorite Airport."

With over 43 million members and operations at 62 CLEAR+ airports, CLEAR's secure identity platform is helping strengthen security and create frictionless checkpoint experiences.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Tampa International Airport to bring CLEAR’s trusted, seamless identity verification experience to travelers in one of the country’s most dynamic and fast-growing regions,” Kyle McLaughlin, EVP, Aviation, CLEAR said. “By bringing CLEAR+ Lanes and automated eGates to TPA, we can work together with the airport to deliver a faster, more predictable airport experience while building on TPA’s strong reputation for innovation and customer service.”

For more information on CLEAR, visit www.clearme.com.

This week, TPA presented a record 238 unclaimed suitcases, backpacks and other items that were never picked up from the Airport’s Lost and Found Department to Hillsborough County Children’s Services and its Duffels of Dignity program.

The donation marks the second consecutive year that Tampa International Airport has contributed to the program, which provides new or gently used bags and luggage to children entering foster care, living in emergency shelters or fleeing domestic violence. The program helps replace trash bags often used to carry personal belongings, offering children a more dignified and supportive start during difficult transitions.

“Every year, hundreds of bags are turned into our Lost and Found Department and, unfortunately, are never claimed," TPA Senior Manager of Guest Experience Shannon Boos said. "Instead of simply disposing of those bags, we wanted to make sure they went to good use.”

Boos said the team in Lost and Found diligently works to locate the owner of any lost items, looking for names, contact information or any other clues associated with the property. When an owner cannot be located and no one comes forward to claim the items over a certain time period, the lost property is donated to local charities to make room for the constant flow of new items left behind at the Airport.

“For children entering foster care, a duffel bag may seem like a small thing, but it can make a tremendous difference,” Boos said. “It gives them a safe, dignified way to carry their personal belongings during what is often one of the most difficult times in their lives.”

Last year, Tampa International Airport donated 119 bags to children in the community, and this year’s donation of 238 bags doubles that total.

Since launching in October 2022, the Duffels of Dignity program has collected more than 2,000 bags for children in need through individual donations and partnerships with various local organizations.

Just a couple of months after Airside D’s structural steel started going up, crews are working around the clock creating some truly concrete results across the worksite.

Concrete platforms inside the steel framework have begun appearing on all levels of the building. The concrete is placed onto metal decking that has been reinforced with steel rebar on each floor.

The structural steel has now moved onto the sixth of 19 separate assembly sequences. A second crane was brought onsite in mid-July to help move the more than 7,300 steel members that will comprise the new Airside terminal.

Meanwhile, more workers have completed the building’s foundation and have been placing concrete for the rest of Airside D’s ground floor and the apron for aircraft across the worksite. Much of that work has been done overnight to mitigate risk and take advantage of cooler temperatures, which allow for better quality control for the concrete.

The existing apron is being demolished panel by panel and crushed onsite to be recycled into the properly sized aggregate (think different sizes of gravel) as that is used as six inches of underlayment for the new concrete.

The ground floor slab-on-grade of Airside D is eight inches of concrete placed over this recycled aggregate while the apron concrete, which needs to withstand the pressure from aircraft that can weigh several hundred tons, is 18 inches thick. When the project is completed, workers will end up placing almost 85,000 cubic yards of concrete for the apron alone.

The dry weather earlier this summer has kept all the work on schedule, with no major disruptions so far.

Other parts of the project that have reached milestones lately:

• The final steel and concrete guideway beams for the future Airside shuttles have been placed across the support piers to the steel supports for the shuttle station. Workers are now creating running surfaces for the shuttles and infrastructure for the baggage delivery system.
   
• Water and sewage pipes are being buried across the worksite with plans for connecting to city water later this year.
   
• Elevators and escalators are being fabricated for eventual installation across the building.
   
• A slightly new route for Bessie Coleman Boulevard is being cleared to connect the road with the future Airside D truck court underneath the shuttle guideway.
   
• Precast concrete panels to sheath the outside of the building are scheduled to be installed in September.

TPA broke ground on Airside D in December 2024, with the building scheduled to be open to the public in 2029. The design-build team for the project is led by construction company Hensel Phelps, with architecture and engineering company HNTB Corporation, in association with Gensler.

To sign up for TPA’s Airside D monthly newsletter and get more information about future business opportunities, click here.

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The announcement was made on July 27, also known as 727 Day in celebration of the Pinellas County area code.

The premium bus service will provide a direct connection between downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa International Airport, giving passengers, airport employees and residents a faster, more convenient and more affordable way to travel across the bay. The route will operate seven days a week, include luggage racks, and will be the first public transit route to use the new Howard Frankland Bridge express lanes to help improve reliability and reduce stress for riders.

“This is more than a new route. It’s a transformational investment in how our region moves,” said PSTA CEO Brad Miller. “For the first time, residents and visitors will have a direct, premium transit connection from the heart of downtown St. Petersburg to Tampa International Airport. Whether you’re catching a flight, heading to work or visiting our community, the 727 Airport Express will make traveling across the bay easier, faster and more convenient than ever before.”

The new service will include nine stops in downtown St. Petersburg, including connections to SunRunner stops and the Pinellas County Beaches, and will run every 75 minutes. For airport travelers, that means a simple, dependable option with room for luggage and fewer concerns about driving, parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. One-way fares will be $2.25.

“We applaud PSTA for thinking regionally and creating new ways to improve connectivity in the Tampa Bay area,” said Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens. “This new express service will offer a convenient, reliable, and sustainable link across the bridge for our 25 million annual passengers and nearly 11,000 employees, strengthening mobility and growth for both Tampa and St. Pete.”

“This is a very significant occasion, because this is the beginning of real transit across Tampa Bay,” said Hillsborough County Commissioner Harry Cohen, who is also a member of the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board. “Michael said it best — we connect everywhere in the world, but we haven’t connected enough in our own backyard,” said Cohen. “Now we are putting our region together.”

The 727 Airport Express is expected to launch in October.

This year’s experience came with an added dose of realism when a delay in cleaning the plane caused an unexpected boarding hold-up, giving families a chance to navigate one of travel’s most common frustrations in a guided, low-stress environment.

One of the Southwest pilots on the incoming flight had a personal connection to the program, sharing that he has a child with autism. He greeted each family as they came aboard, adding a warm and meaningful touch to the day.

Organizers say the event registration filled up in less than an hour, reflecting strong community interest and the growing value of the program for families who want to become more comfortable with flying. After another successful year, planners are already looking ahead to next year’s Wings for Autism event at TPA.

For more information on the The Arc of Tampa Bay and Wings for Autism, click here.

“TPA Presents: The Story of Aviation in Tampa Bay” lands Friday, July 17, from 3 to 6 p.m. in the Main Terminal Event Space on Level 3, offering guests a rare look at the people, planes, and pivotal moments that helped turn Tampa Bay into one of the birthplaces of commercial aviation.

The free public event will showcase an expanded collection of archival treasures, including original artist concept drawings of Tampa International Airport’s iconic Main Terminal, vintage photographs, and archival film footage from the airport’s earliest days. This year’s exhibition also broadens its focus beyond TPA to spotlight the history of Peter O. Knight Airport, Tampa Executive Airport, and Plant City Airport, three facilities that played major roles in shaping regional aviation.

Visitors can expect a mix of nostalgia and discovery, with exhibits tracing everything from early airfields and pioneering pilots to the evolution of modern air travel in Tampa Bay.

One of the afternoon’s featured events will be a screening of the new documentary “America 250: A Portrait of Florida” beginning at 4:30 p.m. The film explores Florida’s contributions to American history, including Tampa Bay’s claim as the birthplace of commercial airline service thanks to the famous Tony Jannus flight across Tampa Bay in 1914.

Following the screening, attendees can hear from a panel of local aviation experts and historians discussing the lasting impact of that first commercial flight and the future of aviation in the region. Panelists include TPA Communications Manager and unofficial airport historian Beau Zimmer, Tony Jannus expert and retired St. Petersburg History Museum Executive Director Will Michaels, and Visit Tampa Bay President and CEO Santiago Corrada.

The event is also part of the City of Tampa’s annual Archives Awareness Week, a citywide celebration of local history timed to coincide with Tampa’s birthday on July 15. Tampa International Airport joined the initiative for the first time last year, and this year’s expanded aviation program is one of several history-focused events taking place across the region throughout the week.

Archives Awareness Week activities include cigar-making history presentations at J.C. Newman Cigar Company, preservation workshops at Tampa’s Black History Museum, research sessions at USF Libraries Special Collections, genealogy programs at the John F. Germany Library, and history talks at the Tampa Bay History Center. Click here to view the city's full schedule of events.

Last year’s inaugural archives event at TPA focused primarily on the airport’s own historical collection, but organizers say this year’s expanded exhibition paints a fuller picture of the entire Hillsborough County Aviation Authority system and the airports that helped connect Tampa Bay to the world long before modern jet travel.

The event is free and open to the public. Guests who park in the Economy Parking Garage can receive parking validation and ride the SkyConnect Train to the Main Terminal. From there, the exhibition space is located on Level 3 near the entrance to the Airside E shuttle lobby.

For aviation enthusiasts, local history lovers, or anyone who has ever looked out an airplane window and wondered how it all began, this event promises a fascinating trip through Tampa Bay’s skies with no boarding pass required.

Clymer was selected from among nominees representing law enforcement agencies across Florida. The award recognizes exceptional civilian employees who make significant contributions to their departments and communities.

As Senior Manager of Public Safety and Security Administration, Clymer oversees critical operational and administrative functions for the Airport Police Department, including management of the department’s $22 million budget. Her financial expertise and organizational skills have earned praise not only within the department but across the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority.

During the past year, Clymer led several major initiatives that modernized and streamlined police department operations. Among her most impactful projects was the complete overhaul of the department’s reporting system, which included more than 100 paper forms. Working alongside the Training Department, she helped create a committee to review, update, and digitize forms into fillable PDFs, significantly improving accessibility and efficiency for officers.

She also oversaw implementation of a new computerized barcode-based Property and Evidence system within the department’s records management department, creating greater accountability and improving evidence tracking procedures. In addition, she coordinated the lawful destruction and purging of more than 1,500 evidence items that no longer had evidentiary value.

Clymer’s work extends far beyond administrative duties. She coordinates the department’s quarterly Coffee With a Cop events, supports the Tampa International Airport Citizen Police Academy, participates in oral board interviews, and has played a key role in improving employee morale through team-building events and celebrations throughout the year.

Knowing a deeper understanding of law enforcement culture would strengthen her effectiveness, Clymer also pursued accreditation training through the Florida Commission for Law Enforcement and became a certified assessor. Her work during a recent accreditation review earned her a Letter of Commendation from the Highland Beach Police Department for her “thoroughness” and “objective approach.”

Tampa International Airport Police Chief Charlie Vazquez praised Clymer’s commitment and impact on the department.

“Sara has proven herself to be a valued member of the Tampa International Airport Police Department,” Vazquez said. “Never one to rest on her laurels, she continues to improve her knowledge, skills and abilities which, in turn, improves the service our officers can provide to the community.”

Clymer said she was stunned when she learned she had received the statewide honor.

“When I think about being up against some of the top large agencies in Florida, I was pretty floored and surprised that I was chosen as Civilian Employee of the Year.”

A former retail leadership executive with Target for 16 years, Clymer joined Tampa International Airport in October 2022, bringing experience in leadership, budgeting, and strategic planning. She said transitioning into public safety administration has been one of the best decisions of her career.

“I really enjoy problem-solving,” Clymer said. “I love being given opportunities to think strategically about how we can make things more efficient and better support the department. I also really enjoy developing teams and helping build a stronger administrative group that supports our officers, traffic specialists, and public safety operations.”

She added that supporting the men and women of the Airport Police Department gives her a strong sense of purpose.

“I feel extremely privileged to support the officers,” Clymer said. “I find so much fulfillment in helping others, and what better way to do that than with a law enforcement agency at Tampa International Airport.”

The Florida Police Chiefs Association represents more than 1,000 law enforcement executives and security professionals statewide and serves as one of the leading professional organizations for law enforcement leadership in Florida.

With another hurricane season well underway, Tampa International Airport has started a new project to help protect its facilities from potential flooding in future storms.

Construction crews this week are starting work to enable TPA to erect a temporary nine-foot flood barrier around the Airport’s two airfield electrical vaults in the event of a hurricane. These two buildings, which are next to Tampa Fire and Rescue’s Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting station near Airside A, house the machinery that powers lighting across the airfield.

Protecting these electrical vaults from flooding is important to helping restart Airport operations following a major storm. Airfield lighting is vital to keeping aircraft moving, especially after dark, and will be necessary to assist the region with recovery efforts. It also would help prevent costly repairs that would likely result from water intrusion or inundation.

When work is completed, TPA will have the ability to put up the barrier (as shown in the rendering at right) to keep storm surge out of the vaults, which are susceptible to the flooding associated with hurricanes that would be Category 3 or higher. The nine-foot barrier is the maximum height that manufacturer AquaFence makes, and would protect the buildings up to a Category 4 storm.

The project includes foundations for the barrier; electrical and drainage improvements; fencing; and pumps to help keep the storm surge away from the buildings.

The barriers will stay in storage at TPA until needed, and can be put into place around the vaults by a contracted emergency response team in about eight to 12 hours

The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board selected construction company H.L. Pruitt Corp. as the contractor at its August 2025 meeting. The total cost of the work and materials is $1.9 million and is part of the Airport’s Capital Budget. The project is scheduled to be completed in August.

New service to Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Atlantic City (ACY) both took off July 1, followed by Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic (PUJ) on July 2, and Columbus, Ohio (CMH), on July 3. If you're thinking about your next getaway, here are a few fun things to do in each destination. 

Fort Lauderdale (FLL): Sun(rises) and fun are just a short hop away. Fort Lauderdale's famous Las Olas Boulevard offers waterfront dining and boutique shopping, while the city's extensive canal system has earned it the nickname "Venice of America." Travelers can hop on a water taxi to explore the coastline or spend the day at one of the area's pristine beaches. Skip the drive and fly the next time you head across the state. 

Atlantic City, N.J. (ACY): Known for its iconic Boardwalk, Atlantic City blends beachside relaxation with big-city entertainment. Visitors can try their luck at the casinos, catch a concert, or stroll the four-mile Boardwalk lined with shops and amusement piers. It's also a convenient gateway to the Jersey Shore and a short drive from Philadelphia and Atlantic County's charming coastal towns.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ): This Caribbean hotspot is known for its powder-white beaches and turquoise waters along the coconut coast. Travelers can relax at an all-inclusive resort, snorkel over vibrant reefs, or head inland to explore rainforests and waterfalls. The area is also a popular spot for golf, with several championship courses designed around its scenic coastline. Punta Cana is one of five international destinations Breeze plans to serve from TPA by the end of 2026, so dust off your passport and begin vacation planning now. 

Columbus, Ohio (CMH): Ohio's capital city offers a lively mix of culture, food and outdoor spaces. The Short North Arts District is packed with galleries, murals and locally owned restaurants, while the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and the Scioto Mile riverfront park offer something for every traveler. It's also home to The Ohio State University, making it a great pick for college sports fans and gameday travelers.

These four new routes mark continued growth for Breeze Airways at TPA, which will offer nearly 40 nonstop destinations from Tampa Bay by the end of the year. 

To book your next trip with Breeze, visit: https://www.flybreeze.com/home.

America is celebrating its 250^th birthday on July 4, and Tampa International Airport has planned lots of events this summer to help make it a party for all of TPA’s travelers.

Ahead of daily live musical performances from Friday through Monday during July 4 weekend, the Airport’s Main Terminal is all dressed up, with special America 250 banners and a commemorative photo backdrop now on the third floor. 

Friends, family and passengers heading to Airside shuttles can use the backdrop to take a quick snap and are encouraged to share them on social media! Also, be sure to stop by our Information Desk near the backdrop and ask for an America 250 sticker, available for limited time starting July 4 weekend.

Celebrations abound throughout TPA for the entire month. Among the special events:

For the entire month of July, the Shoppes at Bayshore on the Main Terminal’s third floor will host an interactive map of America activity and red, white and blue cookies. On July 15, they will have a local cookie sampling and TeBella Tea as a nod to the Boston Tea Party.

The News Channel 8 shop in Airside C will be offering free flags and photo ops on July 1.

Also in Airside C, PDQ is selling All-American milkshakes – creamy vanilla with red, white and blue sprinkles and a cherry on top – for the special price of $2.50 on July 4, 5 and 6.

On July 3, the Hard Rock Café in the Main Terminal will get a visit from brewer Sam Adams, with free beer samples and more.

The Main Terminal Event Space, between the shuttles for Airsides E and F on the third floor, will be the site of the Ron Jon Great American Sidewalk Sale. Stop by and shop for a deal July 10, 11 and 12.

P.F. Chang’s is the place to be on July 15, when the restaurant hosts a National Hot Dog Day party with free hot dogs, one of the most American of all foods.

And on July 17, head back to the Main Terminal Event Space between 3 and 6 p.m. for a special exhibition exploring Tampa Bay’s rich aviation heritage as part of the City of Tampa’s Archives Awareness Week. TPA Presents: The Story of Aviation in Tampa Bay explores the past through archival materials, historic photographs, and original concept drawings of the Airport.

This year’s exhibit also highlights Peter O. Knight, Tampa Executive, and Plant City airports, honoring the people and innovations that shaped our region’s aviation story.

The event will feature a special screening of the new documentary America 250: A Portrait of Florida, celebrating Tampa Bay’s role as the birthplace of commercial aviation.

Finally, there will be further live musical performances the whole month, with programming for the Main Terminal running until August 3.

Be sure to follow us on your favorite social media platform at @flyTPA for more!

Service to Dallas/McKinney is scheduled to begin November 19, followed by flights to Charlotte/Concord launching November 20. 

The McKinney route brings Tampa residents closer to the heart of North Texas, an important economic region. McKinney National Airport is conveniently located near Dallas and its northern suburbs, making it an ideal gateway for leisure and business travelers alike. Upon arrival, passengers can quickly reach major corporate centers and entertainment destinations across the Metroplex.

Concord-Padgett Regional Airport is just minutes from Charlotte Motor Speedway and the vibrant Charlotte metropolitan area, a hub for banking, motorsports and southern charm. From there, travelers will find easy access to professional sports, world-class dining and the scenic Great Smoky Mountains, all within a short drive of the airport.

These new routes are part of Avelo’s continued growth at TPA, offering affordable and convenient travel options to some of the fastest-growing regions in the country. Known for its low fares, Avelo is a favorite among budget-conscious travelers.

Avelo Airlines first began flying at Tampa International Airport in late 2021. Since then, the airline has grown and currently serves three destinations at TPA: New Haven, CT; Wilmington, DE; and Wilmington, N.C.

Avelo’s expansion at TPA underscores its commitment to connecting smaller, more accessible airports with major metropolitan areas, reducing travel time and airport congestion for passengers. For Tampa Bay travelers, these flights mean more nonstop options and more flexibility to explore two thriving regions without layovers.

To book your next trip with Avelo, please click here: https://www.aveloair.com/

The decision follows an overwhelming response to the 2025 event, which saw dozens of families arrive at TPA for a day of learning, discovery, and confidence-building. Parents described the experience as “life-changing,” noting that the opportunity to practice in a calm, judgment-free space made real air travel feel possible for their children. 

Event organizer Brian Siracusa of The Arc Tampa Bay says the continued enthusiasm shows just how valuable the program has become. 

“We’re thrilled to see so many families eager to participate,” Siracusa said. “Our goal this year is to give new participants the same supportive and empowering experience that so many enjoyed last time.”

For families like the Girouds and the Hinsons, who took part in the inaugural Tampa event, the program offered more than just a day at the airport. They say it opened the door to future adventures involving air travel. Parents said the practice run helped their children feel more comfortable with airport sounds, crowds, and routines, while also giving TSA employees and airline crews valuable insight into how to better assist travelers with autism or other developmental disabilities. 

This year’s event will once again bring together Tampa International Airport, Southwest Airlines, and The Arc Tampa Bay for the community partnership focused on inclusion, awareness, and opportunity. 

Families interested in participating are encouraged to mark their calendars and register promptly when enrollment opens on June 24 at 10 a.m. Once all available seats are filled, additional registrants will be placed on a waitlist and contacted if space becomes available. 

For more information or to sign up for registration reminders, visit The Arc Tampa Bay’s Wings for Autism page.

Wander the Royal Botanical Gardens’ winter trails and greenhouses: Even in winter, the Royal Botanical Gardens are alive with color. Warm up inside the beautiful Mediterranean and cactus greenhouses where tropical plants thrive year-round or, in early spring, enjoy the outdoor gardens as they begin to awaken with the first signs of tulips and magnolias. It’s a peaceful, nature-filled retreat – an ideal first stop after your flight from TPA.

Chase flowing (and frozen) waterfalls: Hamilton earns its nickname as the “City of Waterfalls,” boasting more than 100 cascades within its limits. In winter, many freeze into stunning natural sculptures, and by spring, they roar back to life with melting snow. Webster’s Falls and Albion Falls are two of the most photogenic and both are easy to reach via car in any season. Bundle up, bring your camera, and enjoy a uniquely Canadian outdoor experience just a short drive from downtown.

Explore downtown Hamilton and James Street North: When it’s chilly outside, Hamilton’s arts and food scene offers the perfect indoor adventure. Browse cozy cafes, enjoy art galleries, and discover local boutiques along the lively James Street North corridor. In spring, the area buzzes with art crawls, live music, and street festivals that showcase Hamilton’s creative spirit.

Take a day trip to Niagara Falls or Toronto: One of Hamilton’s biggest advantages is its location — roughly an hour's drive to both Toronto and the world-famous Niagara Falls. In winter, Niagara Falls can be mesmerizing, often framed by ice and mist, while spring brings rainbows and renewed energy. Toronto, meanwhile, offers endless museums, shopping, and dining, plus lake views that mirror Hamilton’s own harbor front. With Hamilton as your base, you can easily experience the best of southern Ontario. 

Whether you’re exploring icy waterfalls, strolling through greenhouses, or staying there as a base for a quick trip to Toronto or Niagara Falls, Hamilton shines in winter and spring. 

Porter will operate flights from TPA to YHM aboard its Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, which offers 132 economy seats in a two-by-two configuration, meaning no middle seats. Flights include free WiFi and free beer and wine, along with premium snacks and food options.

Thanks to Porter’s convenient new flights from Tampa to Hamilton, your next Canadian getaway is just a short, stylish flight away. Book your next flight today: https://www.flyporter.com/en-us/

These sessions are designed to engage with community members, local entrepreneurs and business owners interested in learning more about what’s happening at TPA, including future Concessions opportunities tied to the upcoming Airside D and beyond.

Each event will provide an overview of TPA’s Concessions Redevelopment Program, highlight how these future developments support the region’s economic growth, and provide insight into upcoming business opportunities for retailers, restaurants, service providers, and others eager to be part of TPA’s next chapter.

The first community Concessions Redevelopment Information Session will be held Thursday, June 18, at 6 p.m. in the Community Room of the Town 'N Country Regional Library in Tampa.

The second session will take place Thursday, July 9, at 4 p.m. at the Robert W. Saunders, Sr. Public Library in Ybor City.

There is no cost to attend or registration necessary. Additional sessions will be announced in the coming weeks and posted on the TPA Concessions website.

“Tampa International Airport’s Concessions program is built on strong partnerships with local and national businesses,” said Laurie Noyes, TPA’s Vice President of Concessions and Commercial Parking. “We’re excited to bring these conversations directly into the community and share what’s ahead.”

Each session will include a short presentation, followed by discussion. For more information on TPA’s Concessions, please visit: https://www.tampaairport.com/tpaconcessions

Tampa International Airport’s Airside D construction is now going to great lengths to the northwest of the Main Terminal, with shuttle guideway supports spanning as much as 160 feet being installed this week.

Crews from contractor Middlesex Corporation this week have been working overnight to begin installing the bridge superstructure between the new Airside D shuttle station in the Main Terminal and the construction site.

The first steel girders for the future guideway and concrete girders for the walkway between the shuttles have been lifted onto support piers and now span the George J. Bean Parkway. The steel girders, which were lifted together in pairs, weigh up to 80 tons, while the concrete girders weigh as much as 70 tons.

A concrete deck will later be added atop the center girders to form the emergency walkway and to cover two baggage conveyors that will deliver checked bags to the aircraft at Airside D.

Airside D will use the same type of automated shuttles that are currently being installed at Airsides A, C, and E. The steel girders on the outside of the walkway will be fitted with concrete decks, serving as the foundation for poured concrete running surfaces that will function as tracks for the shuttle cars on the guideway.

Structural steel installation to build the framework for Airside D began last month.

The guideway girder installation required overnight closures of the parkway as a pair of cranes lifted the spans into place. People driving to the Red Side of the Main Terminal will be detoured through Blue Side lanes and around the building. Please allow extra time if you plan to visit TPA on these nights and follow detour instructions. 

Travelers and workers who need to reach the Airport Marriott, the Air Traffic Control Tower or the Airport Employee Bus will have marked temporary routes to follow, as well. 

Construction crews will need more time to put up the supports south of the Parkway, necessitating another closure for the service road behind the Airport Marriott from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. the nights on June 12, 15, 16 and 17. 

In case of inclement weather, make-up days will be June 18, 19, 22, and 23.

Future closures will be necessary as other elements of the guideway bridge such as the concrete decks and running surfaces are installed.

For more information about the 16-gate Airside D, which is scheduled to open in 2029, please visit AirsideD.com.

Please click on an image or the video of the installation below to enlarge or download it:

The inaugural flight marks the first time in 20 years that an airline has offered jet service from America's Favorite Airport to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS). The route is available four times per week, giving travelers a convenient way to reach the islands.

TPA hosted a lively gate party to celebrate the milestone, greeting passengers with the bright sounds of a steel drum player, colorful cupcakes, and plenty of giveaways. Airport and Bahamian tourism leaders joined travelers to mark the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony before boarding began. 

“This route is special for me,” TPA Chief Operating Officer John Tiliacos said. “As a Bahamian born and raised in Nassau, I’m so proud to see this service between Tampa and Nassau.”

By the end of 2026, Breeze will serve 37 destinations from TPA, including six in the Caribbean and Latin America. Later this year, the airline plans to launch TPA’s first-ever nonstop flights to San José, Costa Rica, along with new service to Cancun, Mexico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Nassau, Bahamas; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Tickets to the island paradise are now available for purchase on the Breeze Airways website: https://www.flybreeze.com/

Click the photos and video from the gate celebration below to enlarge or download them:

People driving to Tampa International Airport this week will need to be aware of some late-night traffic changes coming to the George J. Bean Parkway.

Work crews will be lifting concrete and steel supports into place over the Parkway from midnight to 4 a.m. on the nights of June 9, 10, and  11.  An overnight closure of the Parkway will be necessary to enable installation of structural supports for the shuttle guideway from the Main Terminal to the future Airside D on the Airfield across the street. 

In case of inclement weather, make-up days will be June 12, 15 and 16. 

People driving to the Red Side of the Main Terminal will be detoured through Blue Side lanes and around the building. Please allow extra time if you plan to visit TPA on these nights and follow detour instructions. 

Travelers and workers who need to reach the Airport Marriott, the Air Traffic Control Tower or the Airport Employee Bus will have marked temporary routes to follow, as well. 

Construction crews will need more time to put up the supports south of the Parkway, necessitating another closure for the service road behind the Airport Marriott from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. the nights on June 12, 15, 16 and 17. 

In case of inclement weather, make-up days will be June 18, 19, 22, and 23.

The shuttle guideway will eventually support automated shuttle cars like the vehicles currently being commissioned at Airsides A, C, and E. Structural steel to build the framework for Airside D began installation last month.

For more information about the 16-gate Airside D, which is scheduled to open in 2029, please visit AirsideD.com.

Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board members on Thursday approved a short list of artists selected to create proposals for public art installations in Airside D and other locations around Tampa International Airport.

The 50 artists who are advancing were selected from among 1,049 portfolio submissions in response to the Airport’s Call for Artists that was issued on February 5.  As part of the Public Art procurement, TPA will commission installations for six locations in Airside D, which is scheduled to open in 2029, and one each in the new Airside A and E security screening checkpoints.

The Call for Artists was expanded to include two more installations on the Main Terminal’s second-floor Ticketing Level, which is scheduled to begin renovations in 2027 to modernize the ticket counters and provide more space for travelers.

Of the artists who submitted portfolios, 13 percent came from outside the United States. Florida was the state with the highest number of respondents, with 189 artist submissions. Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, West Palm Beach, and Miami topped the list of cities in Florida from which artists hailed.

Florida was followed by New York, California, Texas, Colorado, Washington, Illinois and Georgia as the states with the most artists vying for a spot.

The portfolio submissions underwent a review process over several days by an evaluation committee that included Tampa Bay art community leaders and Airport officials. The committee judged the portfolios and then recommended to the Board three primary artists and two alternates for each of the 10 locations.

Following Thursday’s Board approval, the primary artists will each develop site-specific proposals for their installations for the Public Art Committee. These examples can be paintings, sculptures, drawings, collages or other forms of art to demonstrate the artists’ detailed concept.

The artists will present their formal proposals to the Committee at the end of the summer ahead of a final artist selection by the Board in the fall.

The selected artists will be responsible for the development, production, delivery, installation and all travel costs associated with their work.

For more information about the process and the approved short list with both primary and alternate artists, including the location they were invited to work on and how their artwork will be displayed, please visit the schedule on our Call for Artists web page here.

Photo: Janaina Tschape's On memory and plants, in the Red Express Curbsides addition that opened last year, is an example from TPA's Public Art Collection.

With future capacity in mind, the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Board members on Thursday approved a parking rate adjustment scheduled to go into effect on August 4.

Tampa International Airport is the 27^th-largest airport in the United States by passenger volume but has some of the lowest parking rates among the nation’s top 30 airports. This is while offering a higher quality of services and facilities than those airports, such as Short- and Long-Term parking facilities near the Main Terminal and an Economy Parking Garage serviced by an automated train.

The Board voted to raise daily maximum rates at all three garages by $4 per day starting August 4. The Short Term Garage will cost a maximum of $32 per 24 hours, with Long Term and Economy moving to $26 per day and $22 per day, respectively.

All garages will also simplify how hourly rates are calculated and will offer the first hour of parking for free, including the Economy Garage, which currently only offers the first 15 minutes free of charge.

The last time the Board approved a parking rate adjustment was in February 2023.

Parking rates at TPA will continue to be cheaper for travelers who book reservations in advance online at TampaAirport.com/Park, which will guarantee a space upon arrival. For more information about parking options at TPA, please visit the Airport website here.

TPA earned its spot for developing a high-tech warning system that uses LiDAR and artificial intelligence to detect and alert overheight vehicles before they enter the Airport’s Arrivals and Departures drives, a persistent challenge for TPA and other airports worldwide.

Working with Sotereon.AI, TPA deployed the Overwatch software platform, which integrates five Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) sensors along the roadway to use light pulses to measure vehicle height with remarkable accuracy, within one to two inches. When a vehicle exceeds the set limit, bright LED signs flash messages such as “Vehicle Too High — Merge Right” to redirect drivers safely, while real-time alerts are sent to Airport Police and Operations.

“Overwatch takes data from those sensors and turns it into action,” said Doug Wycoff, TPA’s Director of Digital Technologies & Innovation. “We’ve gone from passive warning signs to a fully managed roadway system that tracks height, volume, and speed. It’s a game changer.”

Since launching on April 3, the system has detected 18 to 20 overheight vehicles daily, preventing costly and dangerous strikes that can shut down roadways and disrupt travelers.

“One semi-truck getting stuck under the terminal can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $100,000 in damage and delay hundreds of passengers,” Wycoff explained. “We haven’t had a single incident since we went live, and that speaks volumes.”

Wycoff said the recognition is especially meaningful given the caliber of other finalists.

“It’s exciting to see our ideas stand alongside global innovators like Apple and NVIDIA,” he said. “These are companies with deep resources, and yet we’re right there with them, proving that creativity and smart thinking can come from any size organization.”

Other finalists include:

• Adidas, honored for its Trionda smart soccer ball, which uses embedded chips to transmit real-time data to referees during World Cup matches.
• Apple, recognized for reaching 100% recycled materials in key components such as cobalt in batteries and gold plating in circuit boards.
• Lowe’s, for deploying its Mylow Companion AI assistant that gives store associates instant product knowledge and project guidance.
• Medtronic, for its BrainSense Adaptive DBS system, which personalizes Parkinson’s treatment using real-time brain activity.
• Minnesota Vikings, for their Winter Whiteout Innovation Campaign, which transformed a fan tradition into a global Gen Z engagement platform.

TPA’s inclusion reflects the growing role of airports as innovation testbeds and leaders in smart infrastructure. Wycoff noted that Sotereon.AI is already working with 15 to 20 other airports to expand use of similar technology nationwide.

“We’re proud to see this idea taking off beyond Tampa,” Wycoff said. “It’s not just about preventing incidents, it’s about building smarter, safer airports everywhere.”

Wycoff will represent TPA at the Impact 2026 Conference in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where winners will be announced June 9.

“This kind of innovation doesn’t happen without support from leadership,” Wycoff added. “Our executive team gives us the freedom to experiment and think differently. That’s what makes success like this possible.”

InnoLead is the world’s largest community of corporate innovators. The Impact Awards launched in 2018 and now highlight achievements across technology, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and public infrastructure. TPA’s recognition underscores how operational innovation, often hidden behind the scenes, can deliver world-class impact on safety, efficiency, and customer experience.

The Travelers Aid office, operated by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, offers help to anyone facing unexpected challenges while traveling. This week, two of its longest-serving volunteers, George and Virginia Schultz, were recognized by Crisis Center leaders and TPA executives for an incredible milestone: 20 years of service.

The pair got a special visit this week from Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens and other members of the TPA leadership team to thank them for their many years of service.

“George and Virginia are part of the reason TPA has the reputation it does,” said John Tiliacos, Chief Operating Officer at Tampa International Airport. “It’s the work that they do day in and day out that makes us one of America’s favorite airports.”

For two decades, the Schultzes have been a steady, compassionate presence for travelers in need, whether that means helping a stranded visitor find family, offering diapers to a parent in distress, or simply providing directions and a friendly smile. Both retired teachers, the couple began volunteering shortly after leaving the classroom.

Virginia joined first, encouraged by a friend who was already volunteering at the airport.

“She said, ‘You would really enjoy doing this,’” Virginia recalled. “I came in, got paired with another volunteer to learn the ropes, and when he couldn’t come anymore, George had just retired, so I said, ‘Why don’t you come with me?’”

George followed soon after. 

“Every time you’re helping somebody, that’s what it’s all about,” he said. “When we can help someone, it gives you a reason for being.”

Over the years, they’ve assisted travelers in every imaginable situation, from lost luggage and torn suitcases to serious personal crises. 

“Sometimes you get a hearty thank you,” Virginia said. “And that’s the most important part. People come back and thank you for sending them to where they needed to go.”

Beverly Thompson, Travelers Aid Coordinator at TPA, said the couple’s dependability and compassion set them apart. 

“They are exceptional and very dependable. If someone calls off last minute and they’re available, they’ll come in and fill in. They go above and beyond helping all the guests,” she said. “They’ve put in thousands of hours over the years, and we appreciate them so much.”

Travelers Aid at TPA operates seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., providing support to anyone in crisis or disconnected from their support systems. Services include help with phone calls, emergency items, local referrals, and connections to Crisis Center of Tampa Bay resources. The program is part of the Crisis Center’s mission to ensure that no one has to face a crisis alone.

The program’s continued success is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Signature Aviation General Manager Bill Sneesby and his team, whose support helps maintain the booth’s presence in the Airport.

For George and Virginia, the true reward is the people they meet. 

“It’s nice to interact with different people from all over, to hear their stories, sometimes sad, sometimes happy,” Virginia said. “It’s just about helping however you can.”

Congratulations to George and Virginia Schultz on 20 years of extraordinary service, and thank you to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and Signature Aviation for continuing to make compassionate care part of the travel experience.

Interested in Volunteering?

Travelers Aid is always looking for new volunteers. Visit crisiscenter.com for more information or click here to apply.

To Reach the Travelers Aid Desk at Tampa International Airport:

Call (813) 870-8797 or visit the booth on the Main Terminal's Ticketing Level next to the USO office.

Breeze Airways launched its very first flight from TPA to Charleston, S.C., on May 27, 2021, kicking off founder and CEO David Neeleman's vision of an airline that would provide quality customer service with low costs. Breeze was Neeleman’s fifth airline start-up, after JetBlue, Brazil’s Azul, Canada’s WestJet, and Utah-based Morris Air, which was later purchased by Southwest Airlines.

What began as an ambitious launch has turned into one of TPA’s greatest airline partner success stories.

Breeze has carried more than 2 million passengers through America's Favorite Airport and boasts 37 nonstop destinations across the country from Tampa Bay. The airline is now TPA’s second-largest carrier in terms of destinations served.

These days, Breeze is looking beyond the United States and setting its sights on the Caribbean and Central America. By the end of this year, the airline will operate five international routes from Tampa, including TPA’s first-ever nonstop flights to San Jose, Costa Rica, along with new service to Cancun, Mexico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Nassau, Bahamas; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Breeze is also beginning TPA's first-ever nonstop service to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands in December.

This expansion marks a major leap forward for both Breeze and Tampa Bay travelers. It opens the door to more sunny beaches, fresh adventures and easy flights to see friends and family.

“Breeze has become such a strong partner for Tampa International and for our community," said TPA's Director of Air Service Development Alex Heiter. "They’ve helped open new doors for travelers, and their expansion into international routes shows the confidence they have in this market.”

Neeleman set out to make air travel “Seriously Nice” – Breeze's slogan – by offering affordable, convenient service between cities that were often overlooked and underserved. The airline’s continued investment in Tampa Bay shows that mission in action and reflects just how much passengers have embraced the Breeze experience. To book a flight with Breeze, go to www.flybreeze.com

To look back at video from Breeze's first day at TPA in 2021, click below. Photos from the 5th anniversary celebration are also below. 

Tips for a Smooth Summer at TPA

CHOOSE EXPRESS:
Skip the crowds with TPA’s Red and Blue Express Curbsides, designed for passengers who don’t need to visit Ticketing or Baggage Claim. Follow the Express signs for quick drop-offs and pick-ups right at the Main Terminal.

SKIP THE DRIVE:
Consider public transit options to avoid parking and traffic hassles. Groome Transportation offers express shuttle service between The Villages and TPA, with stops in Brooksville and Wesley Chapel starting at $25. From Pinellas County or downtown Tampa, PSTA’s 300X Airport Express route provides fast, affordable service to the terminal with free parking at the Ulmerton Park & Ride lot.

PLAN AHEAD FOR PARKING:
Reserve your parking online before you arrive. TPA’s booking system guarantees a space and helps the Airport manage demand, making your travel day smoother and less stressful.

CHECK THE WEATHER:
Florida summers often bring pop-up thunderstorms that can briefly affect flight schedules. Early morning flights generally have better odds of staying on time, so monitor your airline’s updates and local forecasts before heading out.

AVOID CIRCLING:
Drivers picking up passengers should use TPA’s Cell Phone Waiting Lot—complete with restrooms, free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and real-time flight information. Once your traveler is at the curb, you can head there quickly without adding congestion to the roadways.

SKIP THE LINES:
TPA offers self-serve boarding pass kiosks on both the Ticketing and Transfer Levels for easy check-in. Hungry travelers can also order food via Uber Eats from participating Airport restaurants and pick it up when ready—no waiting required.

LEAVE YOUR FURRY FRIENDS AT HOME:
Only service animals and pets traveling by air are permitted inside TPA terminals. Pets must remain in carriers or on short leashes for everyone’s safety. Visit TPA’s website for details on airline pet policies and designated pet relief areas.

ADDITIONAL AMENITIES:
TPA makes travel comfortable for all guests, offering Nursing Rooms, Pet Relief Areas, water bottle filling stations, a USO Center, Travelers’ Aid, and Sunflower Lanyards for those with hidden disabilities. Need assistance? Stop by an Information Desk on Level 3 of the Main Terminal, in the Rental Car Center, or near Baggage Claim.

For more travel tips and updates before your trip, visit TampaAirport.com.

Now, after months of preparation and careful setup, the vibrant underwater habitats are back in place. Each display features 19 species of tropical fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish, and damselfish, nearly 50 individual animals in total. All are native to Florida’s Caribbean reef ecosystems. 

Aquarium staff continue their meticulous care routine, providing the fish with a diet of squid, shrimp, clams, and nutritional pellets, along with regular tank maintenance and scuba dives to keep the habitats pristine. 

For more than 25 years, the partnership between the Florida Aquarium and TPA has brought a touch of the tropics to travelers arriving in Tampa Bay. The return of the exhibits marks another milestone in that ongoing relationship and a welcome splash of color for passengers picking up their luggage. 

Visitors can find the shimmering displays once again at the red and blue baggage claim levels of Tampa International Airport.

Travelers heading to and from Tampa International Airport from Pinellas County should be aware the Courtney Campbell Causeway will be closed in both directions for two nights this week.

Both eastbound and westbound lanes of State Road 60 across the Causeway are scheduled to be closed from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. on the nights of Monday, May 11, and Tuesday, May 12. Westbound passengers will be able to turn around at Ben T. Davis Beach in order to access Rocky Point businesses.

Please follow all detour signage in the area.

The closure is necessary while workers perform overhead bridge work as part of a pedestrian overpass installation on the Clearwater side of the Causeway.

The dates are dependent on weather conditions; May 13 and 14 are backup dates. Further Causeway closures for work on SR 60 may be necessary on the nights of May 18 and 26, and also June 1, weather permitting.

For more information on this project, 437498-1-52-01, please go to the Florida Department of Transportation website.

Both routes to St. Thomas and Cancun are scheduled to operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Service to St. Thomas is scheduled to begin on December 16 followed by Cancun on December 19. 

With the addition of these new routes, Breeze continues to grow its presence at America's Favorite Airport, now offering 37 nonstop destinations from TPA of which five are international. 

"These two new routes mark exciting milestones for Tampa International Airport: Our first-ever flights to St. Thomas and Breeze Airways’ first-ever service to Mexico from TPA,” said TPA CEO Michael Stephens. “Both destinations are in high demand among Tampa Bay travelers, and the timing couldn’t be better as we look ahead to this year's busy holiday travel season. We can’t wait to celebrate the launch of these routes in December.”

From Tampa, travelers will soon be able to jet off to the beautiful shores of St. Thomas or Cancun, where turquoise waters, resorts and charming shops await. 

“With these new routes, Tampa will now offer service to all of our international destinations and be the first to experience our new service to the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands,” said David Neeleman, Breeze Airways’ founder and CEO. “We know our guests will love these destinations and we look forward to launch this winter.”

Of note for travelers to St. Thomas: U.S. citizens can visit without a passport as the U.S. Virgin Islands are a territory of the United States, meaning travelers can enjoy the Caribbean’s beauty with all the convenience of domestic travel. Travelers must bring a REAL ID government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license) for TSA screening, just as they would for any other domestic flight.

Breeze offers their passengers a variety of amenities, including Ascent premium seating and fast onboard WiFi.

Tickets for both of these new routes are now available for sale on Breeze’s website: https://www.flybreeze.com/home.

A private reception will take place at the airport on May 6 to unveil the winning entries before the exhibit opens to the public. 

Jacob Kamis discovered his love for photography while in middle school at Hillel Academy and went on to become the official photographer for the Aston Martin Owners Club of Florida. Jacob’s many interests included dancing, volleyball, baking, traveling, and flying planes, as he was training for his private pilot's license. His family and former teachers created the contest to honor his memory and encourage other young artists to express themselves through photography. 

“Artistic activities like photography play a vital role in fostering mental health and self-esteem,” said Jacob’s parents, Katherine Alano and Jeffrey Kamis. “We’re grateful to our partners for providing this platform where students can share their stories through photography in Jacob’s memory.” 

The contest’s judging panel included FOX 13 feature reporter Charley Belcher, FMoPA Executive Curator Robin O’Dell, and Florida-based artist and educator Debra Campbell. Sponsors for this year’s event include the DeBartolo Family Foundation, Florida Blue, Proper House Group and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

Tampa Executive Airport (VDF) is experiencing a major growth spurt, adding four hangar facilities that are all scheduled to be available later this year.

These hangar projects by various private developers mark one of the largest General Aviation infrastructure expansions to date for Hillsborough County Aviation Authority facilities at VDF. The four hangars will add about 42,000 total [MP1] square feet of space to VDF and are the result of more than $6.4 million in private investment.

The first hangar completed was a nearly 12,000-square-foot project started last summer by VDF fixed-base operator Skyport and was finished in March. An additional 20 vehicle parking spaces were included in the scope of the construction.[EC2] 

The second hangar project that started in June 2025 also will add another approximate 12,000 square feet of hangar space and is more than 50 percent completed. It is anticipated to be completed by end of summer.

The third hangar project will be an approximately 12,000-square-foot hangar split into two hangers that are about 6,000 square feet apiece.  This project is in early construction phase and should be completed by year-end.

The fourth hangar will be approximately 6,000 square feet and is currently in final permitting. The project should also be completed by the end of 2026.

The new hangars will add significant capacity and strengthen economic activity to position VDF for long-term growth. For more information about hangar availability at VDF, go to www.tampaairport.com/business/real-estate.

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The award will be presented at a gala celebration on November 19, 2026, at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. The Tony Jannus Award celebrates the Tampa Bay region’s historic role as the birthplace of commercial aviation and honors figures who have shaped its global future.

“Steven Udvar-Hazy may not be a household name outside of the aviation industry, but if you’ve ever been grateful for the ability to fly somewhere important to you at a reasonable price, he might deserve more of the credit for that than any other single person,” said David Long, 2026 Tony Jannus Society Co-Chair.

Five facts you should know about Udvar-Hazy's influence on commercial aviation

1. He pioneered modern aircraft leasing.
In 1973, Udvar-Hazy co-founded International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC), one of the first major aircraft leasing companies. Before his model, airlines had to buy planes outright, tying up enormous capital. His leasing concept allowed airlines to expand fleets without spending billions up front, fundamentally changing global airline economics. Today, more than half of all commercial aircraft are leased rather than owned.

2. You’ve probably flown on one of “his” planes.
At its peak, ILFC owned more aircraft than many major airlines. For decades, travelers boarding commercial flights had a strong chance of flying on a plane leased through one of Udvar-Hazy’s companies. His business quietly powered much of the world’s airline capacity.

3. He became one of Boeing and Airbus’s biggest customers.
Udvar-Hazy’s companies ordered hundreds of aircraft from both manufacturers, reportedly more than 700 Boeing jets and around 600 Airbus jets. His purchasing power gave him extraordinary influence over aircraft design, performance specifications, and pricing negotiations, helping shape the planes passengers fly today.

4. He “retired,” then built another empire.
After leaving ILFC in 2010, Udvar-Hazy founded Air Lease Corporation and immediately signed multibillion-dollar aircraft orders, including a 51-plane deal with Airbus. Rather than stepping away, he reinvented his business and created another global leader in aircraft leasing.

5. His name graces one of the world’s greatest aviation museums.
Udvar-Hazy donated more than $60 million to the Smithsonian Institution to help create the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center near Washington Dulles International Airport. The museum is home to many historic aircraft, including the Space Shuttle Discovery, the Concorde, and the prototype Boeing 367-80.

A lifetime of aviation innovation

Udvar-Hazy’s legacy extends beyond business success. He holds an FAA Airline Transport Pilot certificate with multiple jet type ratings and has more than 45 years of flight experience. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from UCLA and has received numerous honorary doctorates. His long list of awards includes the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy, Howard Hughes Memorial Award, and the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of Hungary.

He continues to serve the industry as a senior strategic advisor to the Board of Directors of SkyWest, Inc., and as a board member for several private corporations and investment firms.

The Tony Jannus Award, established in 1964 by the Tampa and St. Petersburg Chambers of Commerce, celebrates the Tampa Bay area as the birthplace of commercial aviation. The organization annually honors individuals who have advanced commercial aviation. Past recipients include legends such as Chuck Yeager, Herb Kelleher, Sir Richard Branson, and Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger.

Through this recognition, the Tony Jannus Distinguished Aviation Society highlights both aviation’s rich heritage and its future, supporting education and outreach for Florida students pursuing aviation careers.

For more information about the 2026 gala and sponsorship opportunities, visit TonyJannus.com.

The Airport’s Fourth Annual Earth Day at TPA event will take place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Main Terminal Event Space, featuring more than 20 exhibitors from across the region, interactive displays, and refreshments provided by Newslink and Kahwa Coffee.

Ahead of the celebration, Eric Caplan, TPA’s Sustainability and Resilience Program Director, shared insights into some of the Airport’s newest sustainability milestones and ongoing projects. Here are five highlights TPA passengers and the public can look forward to in 2026:

1. Creating new sustainable guidelines for TPA

This year marks the rollout of TPA’s updated Sustainable Design Criteria Manual, which integrates sustainability considerations into every new project and renovation. The manual ensures that design teams evaluate opportunities for water efficiency, LED lighting, waste reduction, and potential rebates for energy-saving measures. From major projects like the construction of Airside D, to more routine renovations, such as roof replacements, each new project will now include formal reviews to determine opportunities such as solar feasibility. This systematic approach guarantees that sustainability is built into the foundation of all Airport projects, large and small.

2. Putting your Starbucks coffee grounds to good use

TPA is preparing to launch a composting pilot program in partnership with HMSHost (now Avolta) and O-Town Compost, focusing initially on the six Starbucks locations throughout the Airport. The program will collect used coffee grounds from all Airsides and transport them to an off-site composting facility. In a full-circle effort, some of the finished compost may be returned to the Airport’s landscaping teams for use in both interior and exterior plantings. This pilot project marks the expansion of a broader food waste diversion strategy across the TPA campus.

3. Expansion of electric and alternative-fuel vehicles

Continuing its commitment to low-emission transportation, TPA has expanded its electric vehicle (EV) fleet, including new electric buses serving the North Employee Lot and additional EVs and hybrid models for airport operations. These efforts align with the Airport’s long-term goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality across the Tampa Bay area.

4. LEED Certification for the Tampa Airport Marriott

The newly renovated Tampa Airport Marriott hotel recently achieved LEED certification for its room renovation project—a milestone that will be formally recognized during this year’s Earth Day celebration. Representatives from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), which oversees the LEED program, will join the ceremony to honor the Marriott’s sustainability achievement. The recognition underscores the Airport’s collaborative approach to sustainability, extending beyond its own operations to include its on-site partners.

5. TPA’s First Responsible Growth Report

In 2024, TPA published its inaugural Responsible Growth Report, providing a transparent look at the Airport’s sustainability performance and community impact. The report highlights achievements in energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and community partnerships, offering the public a comprehensive view of how TPA integrates responsible growth into its business practices. The annual report represents another step in making sustainability measurable, accountable, and accessible to travelers and stakeholders alike.

6. Joining the City of Tampa’s Anti-Litter Campaign

TPA is proudly participating in the City of Tampa’s anti-litter campaign, which is being displayed in areas like the Tampa Riverwalk, local parks, public buses, and now at the Airport. The campaign features six colorful characters named Alli the Alligator, Patty the Brown Pelican, Manny the Florida Manatee, Shasha the Bonnethead Shark, Oliver the Octopus, and Tripp the Loggerhead Sea Turtle. Each character represents local wildlife with a signature Tampa flair. TPA hopes the campaign raises awareness among locals and visitors from around the world that litter harms animals, waterways, and the environment.

Celebrating Earth Day at TPA

For the fourth straight year, TPA’s Earth Day event will bring together Airport tenants, community organizations, and local sustainability leaders, including representatives from the City of Tampa, Hillsborough County, ZooTampa, The Florida Aquarium, and the University of South Florida. Visitors can explore educational exhibits, view eco-art made from recycled beach garbage and even visit the popular Butterfly Tampa display.

TPA’s growing sustainability portfolio reflects its vision for a cleaner, more resilient future – one that balances environmental responsibility with the needs of travelers and the community.

Earth Day Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Main Terminal Event Space, Tampa International Airport
Admission: Free and open to the public

The first vertical elements of Tampa International Airport’s future Airside D are beginning to appear this month as work crews have been assembling the building’s concrete elevator cores.

Six precast concrete cores forming shafts for 11 of Airside D’s 15 elevators – for passenger, cargo and service functions – are being put into place on the worksite, comprising some very visible and very important components of the $1.528 billion project.

These elevator cores will be the main arteries of movement between the main floor’s aircraft gates and passenger facilities, the ground-level U.S. Customs facility and the Mezzanine level that will house the Delta Sky Club and a common-use lounge.

Four more elevators will be built within the Airside’s second-floor steel framing, which is scheduled to start being erected in May.

The completed precast concrete towers range in height from 36 to 63 feet tall, with walls weighing as much as 49,000 pounds. The eight-inch-thick concrete panels that comprise the cores are made by Coreslab Structures and were cast at their facility in Tampa.

A crane lifts the panels into their positions atop existing concrete pits, where workers weld the panels to the foundations and to each other using dozens of steel clips at integrated points. Each core is then covered with a concrete cap that is secured at the top of the completed shaft, which will eventually house elevator cars and their operating machinery.

Also visible on the worksite are the beginnings of the shuttle platform supports to connect the 600,000-square-foot Airside D to TPA’s Main Terminal, as well as 310 foundation pads that will anchor support columns for the entire building. Crews last month were able to run and bury long spans of electrical & telecommunication conduits known as duct banks that will distribute the power throughout the building from what will be the Main Electric Room.

TPA broke ground on Airside D in December 2024, with construction scheduled to be completed by 2028 and be open to the public in 2029. The design-build team for the project is led by construction company Hensel Phelps, with Architecture and Engineering company HNTB Corporation, in association with Gensler.

To sign up for TPA’s Airside D monthly newsletter and get more information about future business opportunities, click here.

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Kelly Renza, Senior Manager of the AOC’s Operations team, oversees the dispatchers responsible for keeping the Airport running smoothly around the clock.

“Dispatchers are one of those groups that sometimes get forgotten about,” Renza said. “They hold a very important role in nearly every part of the Airport, whether you’re outside on the runway or inside one of our terminals. They’re the ones taking customer service calls, emergency calls, or any type of call for service.”

The AOC operates 24/7 with a staff of 36 dispatchers and supervisors, 18 in Operations and 18 in Public Safety. The teams work in shifts that cover every hour of every day. Together, they handle thousands of calls ranging from routine maintenance issues to emergencies requiring immediate response.

“They’ve been called the heartbeat of the Airport,” Renza explained. “We get calls for fuel spills, medicals, shuttles down, or anything going on in the Airport.”

Those responders might be Airport Police, ARFF firefighters, maintenance crews, or custodial teams, depending on the situation. The AOC fields calls from both Airport staff and passengers, sometimes frantic, sometimes confused, and often grateful.

“We get everything from ‘When does my flight leave?’ to ‘I left my bag at security,’ to ‘There’s a spill in the restroom,’” Renza said. “And sometimes, it’s a medical emergency or a lost child. No two calls are ever the same.”

The AOC’s advanced technology and prime location give the team a panoramic view of Airport operations. But the job is far from easy.

“It’s a lot of noise to get used to,” Renza said. “You’ve got alarms going off, fire alarms, shuttle alarms, and 911 calls coming in, sometimes all at once.”

During major events such as hurricanes or power outages, the AOC becomes a hub of coordinated activity. “A power outage can be very stressful,” Renza noted. “You’re getting all parties involved across the Airport, with officers working with Operations to check doors and ensure security. There are flashing strobes, elevated radio traffic, and it’s all hands on deck.”

Despite the intensity, Renza describes the AOC team as a close-knit family.

“They’re very strong, very dedicated, just a wonderful, talented family,” she said. “They spend a lot of time together and work together so well. They always make sure the top priority is taking care of our passengers and guests.”

For Airport Operations Supervisor Alana Geil, who has been with the AOC for four years, that sense of teamwork and variety is what makes the job so rewarding. “I enjoy that not every day is the same,” Geil said. “There are so many things to do, and the industry is always evolving with new steps forward for safety and training. There’s always something to learn and create.”

Geil described her role as a “fun and unique opportunity to learn everything you can about an Airport” and said that being at the center of operations keeps the job exciting. “We’re frontline and center, responding to different issues whether that’s maintenance or an aircraft alert,” she said. “It’s truly a rewarding job.”

To show appreciation for their hard work, TPA is hosting a week of festivities for National Telecommunicators Week, featuring themed decorations, treats, and special gatherings.

“We have lots of activities and food planned,” Renza said. “Today, we had a cereal bar. The AOC is decorated with balloons, and we have several themed days planned throughout the week.”

Along with a dessert party to kick off the week on Monday, each dispatcher is receiving a special gift bag as a token of gratitude. The celebration continues throughout the week with decorations that transform the AOC into a festive, colorful space reflecting the pride and appreciation felt across the Airport community.

Geil said the recognition means a lot to the team. “A lot of times, the AOC kind of goes unnoticed because we’re behind the scenes,” she said. “It’s really nice to get that recognition and have fun celebrating together.”

For Renza, the celebration is well deserved. “There are so many things that just wouldn’t go as smoothly if we didn’t have this team,” she said. “It’s great for people to know that there’s a trained team in the AOC ready to help, no matter what the situation is.”

There’s a lot to love about Tampa International Airport’s Rental Car Center, which opened to the public on Valentine’s Day 2018.

The new facility consolidated on-airport rental car companies and their fleet of vehicles in one location, freeing parking space in our public garages and creating a convenient experience that’s just a short train ride from our Main Terminal.

Here’s a look at some of the features in our Rental Car Center, and how best to use them to make your visit as stress-free as possible.

A big addition to TPA

Our Rental Car Center is big – like 2.5 million square feet big. While the customer service counters for the 14 different rental car company brands at TPA are all spaced together side by side, the entire complex sits on a sprawling 55 acres. The garage complex has room to hold about 4,400 vehicles, with three floors for picking up and dropping off a vehicle and a fourth floor on top for rental vehicle storage. You may notice your rental car company parking your rental vehicle backward in spaces with the trunk open; that’s to help you load the vehicle you’re picking up without having to fumble with keys while toting your baggage. We also have Ride App Pick-up (Uber and Lyft) curbside at our SkyCenter One office building across the street, but please note your private vehicle is not permitted inside the Rental Car Center – it’s for rental vehicles only.  There is a convenient remote curbside outside adjacent to the Rental Car Center if you are dropping someone off or picking someone up.

Keeping cars on the road

When all those cars, trucks and SUVs are returned, they need to be cleaned and fueled for the next renter, so TPA’s Rental Car Center has a full suite of prep bays. The quick turnaround area  of the Rental Car Center has 28 car washes and 144 fuel dispensers with vacuums in the garage structure that allow vehicle service attendants to get those vehicles ready to go back on the road again. Some companies also have electric vehicle chargers for those types of vehicles. If a vehicle needs scheduled maintenance or further attention, there are four service centers adjacent to the complex with dedicated mechanics and technicians to keep things running smoothly.

Try our Remote Bag Check

One of the most unique features of our Rental Car Center is the Remote Bag Check, which allows travelers on certain participating airlines to tag and drop their bags and check-in for their flight (check with your airline about oversized items) without having to visit the ticket counter in the Main Terminal, cutting down on congestion and wait times. This special service takes your checked bags and loads them onto a van to be screened and sorted before heading to the aircraft. This service is available for passengers on American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit and United. There is a cutoff time for this service: You need to check in at a minimum of 90 minutes before your flight, although that can stretch to two hours during the busiest travel periods.

Mind your SkyConnect etiquette

The SkyConnect train that links the Rental Car Center to the Economy Parking Garage and the Main Terminal stops right in front of the rental counters to drop off and pick up travelers. The station is designed so that arriving renters can exit the train on the rental car customer service counter side of the platform and head right to their rental car company, while departing renters who have dropped off their vehicles board on the opposite side. This is to keep the two sets of travelers from running into each other trying to get off or on the train. Also keep in mind that the train doors don’t work like elevators, and aren’t designed to be held open. This can lead to the train system shutting down for safety reasons.  Don’t worry, another train will be along in a couple of minutes.

Wheelchair assistance is available

If you require mobility assistance in the Rental Car Center, all you need to do is ask! Wheelchair service from your arriving flight to the Rental Car Center can be arranged through your airline. When you’re back to drop off your rental vehicle and need to get to the Main Terminal, call (813) 387-9797 and arrange to have wheelchair service to your airline’s ticket counter. Signs throughout the garage include the phone number and a location number. Give the representative your location number and a team member will arrive in a few minutes to assist you.

The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority, which manages TPA and its three general aviation airports, earned a spot on the list for the ninth consecutive year, placing 36th in the large organization category out of 165 total workplaces honored.

As in previous years, HCAA’s ranking was determined through the organization’s annual Workplace Experience Survey. The survey, conducted last fall by Energage, gathered feedback from employees on topics such as pay and benefits, leadership, organizational direction, meaningfulness, and appreciation.

An impressive 638 employees, representing 90% of the Authority’s workforce, participated in the survey. Respondents gave high marks for HCAA’s benefits package and reported feeling well-informed about upcoming organizational decisions. The Authority also scored strongly in employee retention, with results showing fewer team members looking to leave the organization. Overall scores were up two points from the previous year.

To view the full Tampa Bay Times Top Workplaces list, click here.

The prestigious award, hosted by the international cleaning and facility solutions association, celebrates excellence in cleanliness, hygiene, and accessibility, honoring facilities and teams that demonstrate exceptional care and attention to detail. TPA earned the top spot over other renowned facilities, including the American Museum of Natural History, Central Park Conservancy, and the John G. Shedd Aquarium, after being named a finalist in the ISSA Spotless Spaces Competition earlier this year.

“This recognition is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of our Flagship Aviation Services team members, who take pride in keeping every corner of our Airport spotless,” said John Tiliacos, TPA’s Chief Operating Officer. “We are incredibly proud of the strong partnership we’ve built with Flagship and deeply appreciate the reliability, professionalism, and care their employees bring to Tampa International Airport every day. Their work plays a vital role in creating a positive, world-class experience for our passengers.”

Flagship Aviation Services has been TPA’s janitorial service provider for more than a decade, supporting the Airport’s mission to deliver an exceptional guest experience through cleanliness and comfort. The company’s frontline employees work around the clock, 365 days a year, to ensure TPA’s terminals, restrooms, and public spaces meet the highest standards of appearance and hygiene.

“Maintaining a spotless environment in such a high-traffic facility takes dedication, teamwork, and a shared commitment to excellence,” said Derrick Deadwiler, Flagship’s Senior Vice President of Operations. “This honor from ISSA reflects the pride we take in delivering a clean, safe, and welcoming experience for every traveler who passes through TPA.”

Deadwiler and Tampa International Airport's VP of Operations Benjamin Robins both accepted the award at an ISSA ceremony Monday afternoon in Washington, D.C. 

Tampa International Airport congratulates the entire Flagship team on this achievement and thanks them for their continued partnership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence that help make TPA America's Favorite Airport.

What time should I arrive before my departing flight?
TPA recommends passengers arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This is especially important during the busy spring break travel period, when lines may be longer than usual. Giving yourself extra time can help reduce stress and allow you to grab a coffee or use the restroom before boarding.

How early do the TSA security checkpoints open?
Security checkpoint opening times vary by Airside, and are subject to change in relation to flight schedules:

• Airside A: 4 a.m.
• Airside C: 3:30 a.m.
• Airside E: 3:30 a.m.
• Airside F: 3:15 a.m.

Our e-gates allowing access to the Airside shuttles are programmed to open 15 minutes prior to the checkpoints opening. 

How long are the TSA lines at TPA?
TSA lines at TPA are often less than 10 minutes, but higher passenger volume can lead to longer wait times. Even during peak periods, waits are rarely longer than 30 to 40 minutes.

Are certain times busier than others?
Yes. The hours between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m. are typically the busiest across all Airsides, as many airlines schedule departures around the same time. Allow extra time for these early morning flights and consider ordering ahead for food and beverages through the Uber Eats or Starbucks apps.

Are ICE agents being deployed to Tampa International Airport?
At this time, we have not received any indication that ICE agents will be coming to TPA to assist at TSA security screening checkpoints.

I’ve heard TSA officers are not getting paid during the U.S. government shutdown. Is there a way I can offer assistance or show appreciation?
Yes! TPA has partnered with Feeding Tampa Bay to help ensure local TSA frontline workers have the food and resources they need during the U.S. government shutdown. Click here for more information on how to volunteer, donate, or host a food drive. If you’re traveling, please take a moment to thank these dedicated TSA employees who help maintain safety in our airports and skies.

Can I see live updates about TSA wait times?
TPA is working to install monitors displaying live security wait times for standard screening and TSA PreCheck. This feature is currently available at the entrance to the shuttle lobby for Airside A, with plans to expand to other Airsides in the future.

Is TPA experiencing extremely long security screening lines like other airports?
No. At this time, most TSA lines at TPA average less than15 minutes and rarely exceed 30 to 40 minutes. However, TPA still recommends arriving two hours before domestic flights or three hours before international flights, as ticket counter or bag check lines may be longer than expected during the busy spring break travel period.

For the latest updates follow Tampa International Airport's social media @FlyTPA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The service to San Jose has long been a goal of the Airport, and marks the return of the Costa Rican destination to TPA for the first time in more than 25 years. The capital of Costa Rica offers connections that will benefit both business and leisure travelers, as well as the many Tampa Bay area families with ties to the Central American nation. Costa Rica ranks as Florida’s ninth-largest trade partner, with about 3,000 Costa Rican-born residents calling Tampa Bay home. 

Flights to Punta Cana start July 2 and will operate on Thursdays and Sundays. This route is currently served by JetBlue and Frontier.  

Service to San Jose Begins October 3 and will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Breeze will be the only carrier offering this route. 

"It’s an exciting day for Tampa International Airport as we celebrate not one, but two new international nonstop routes,” TPA CEO Michael Stephens said. “With new service to San Jose, Costa Rica — our first time offering this destination from TPA in more than 25 years — and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, we’re enhancing Tampa Bay’s access to two sought-after travel spots. We’re thrilled that Breeze is adding these routes that give our travelers even more ways to experience the beauty and culture of Latin America and the Caribbean.”

With the addition of these new routes, Breeze's growing international presence will double at TPA from two destinations to four. The airline is due to launch nonstop flights to Nassau, The Bahamas, on June 11 and plans to offer service to Montego Bay, Jamaica, beginning December 19, after a delay caused by Hurricane Melissa's 2025 landfall in western Jamaica.

“This announcement doubles the number of international destinations Breeze serves from Tampa, making it easy for our guests to visit great places across Central America and the Caribbean,” said David Neeleman, founder and CEO of Breeze Airways. “With Breeze’s premium product offering and affordable fares, we know our guests in Tampa will love this new and convenient international service.”

Go to Breeze today to book a flight: https://www.flybreeze.com/

Tampa International Airport’s latest big update is really on the move this week, as the Airport unveiled new Blue Shuttles being commissioned for travelers to use at Airsides A and C.

Airport officials introduced the sleek, automated cars Thursday by taking a few rides with members of the news media before the new Blue Shuttles were put into public service on Friday, March 13.

Passengers heading to and from the Airsides will notice the same familiar and smooth shuttle rides as always, but with a thoroughly modernized experience.

“TPA’s signature shuttles go back to our opening in 1971, and were the first of their kind at any airport in the world when they debuted,” Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens said. “Now we are proud to offer another first, with TPA being the first airport in the world to offer these brand-new shuttles coupled with the new technology and operating system that will be guiding them.”

The next-generation Innovia APM R shuttle cars – a pair of mated Blue cars at both Airsides – are manufactured by Alstom in its Pittsburgh-area production facility. Alstom is the same company that manufactured the old cars.

These new shuttles not only use Alstom’s new proprietary software, but also have entirely new electrical running systems and concrete guideways to make their journey back and forth. The cars feature improved lighting, video information screens and doors with obstacle-detection systems.

“Today we’re proud to celebrate a new milestone in this decades-long partnership, introducing our latest and most advanced APM vehicles into service, designed and manufactured in the United States,” Alstom Americas President and CEO Michael Keroullé said. “This is an important part of our broader commitment to support the improvement of the airport’s shuttle system.”

The shuttle systems have been thoroughly tested for operational reliability and safety and now are ready for use. The prior cars were installed in the 1990s and ran for well over 1 million miles each.

The old Red Shuttles at Airsides A and C will continue to operate alongside the Blue Shuttles until early April to help with the extra traffic during the busy spring break travel period, the busiest time of year at TPA. Then the Red Shuttles will be shut down and replaced just like the Blue Side.

A similar update is also taking place at Airside E on a slightly different timeline. All the shuttles at the three Airsides are scheduled to be replaced by later this year.

The guideway rehabilitation and shuttle car replacement for Airsides A and C, which includes design and running surfaces, plus eight cars with their controls and signaling systems, is budgeted to cost $61 million. The Airside E replacement project requires four more cars – the Red Shuttle cars were delivered earlier this year and are currently being installed – plus guideways and switchgear and costs an additional $30 million. The projects are funded with bonds and state grants.

New cars also have been ordered for the forthcoming Airside D. Airside F, which has the newest cars of all the Airsides, is due to get new shuttles in the future.

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Julie Clark’s journey began in the late 1960s, a time when female pilots were almost unheard of in commercial aviation. Determined to pursue her dream, she earned her pilot’s license as a teenager and quickly discovered that her passion for flying was more than a calling; it was a mission. Orphaned at age 15, she transformed adversity into motivation, charting a course that few women had ever attempted.

Her persistence paid off when she became one of the first female pilots hired by a major U.S. airline, breaking barriers at 35,000 feet and paving the way for future generations of women in aviation. Over four decades, Clark built a career defined by professionalism, precision, and safety, retiring in 2004 as an Airbus A320 captain. Her remarkable journey proved that skill and determination, not gender, define a pilot’s place in the cockpit.

In addition to her airline career, Clark became a beloved figure in the airshow world. For more than 40 years, she captivated audiences nationwide with stunning aerobatic performances in her restored Beechcraft T-34 Mentor, a gleaming aircraft she personally maintained and flew with unmatched pride. Her routines, choreographed to patriotic music, showcased both technical mastery and heartfelt devotion to her craft. With more than 34,000 flight hours, including over 11,000 in her T-34, Clark’s life in the skies has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Her achievements have earned her induction into numerous aviation halls of fame, including Women in Aviation International’s Pioneer Hall of Fame, the International Council of Air Shows Hall of Fame, the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame, and the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2025. Among her many honors are the Bill Barber Award for Showmanship, the Art Scholl Memorial Award, the ICAS Sword of Excellence, and the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, recognizing over 50 years of safe flying.

Beyond her professional accolades, Clark remains deeply committed to mentoring young aviators and encouraging women to pursue careers in flight. Through her nonprofit organization, Clark’s Canine Care, she also uses her aviation skills to transport rescue dogs from overcrowded shelters to new homes across the country.

The GALA event takes place Friday evening at Peter O. Knight Airport and raises scholarship funds for young women pursuing aviation careers. Organizers say Clark’s keynote address will offer an unforgettable message about perseverance, passion, and the power of following your dreams.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit GALATampaBay.com.

Tampa International Airport is offering a free information session to entrepreneurs interested in learning about the next steps in future opportunities within TPA’s award-winning Concessions program at the future Airside D and beyond.

The free Concessions Redevelopment Information Session on April 9 will focus on business owners, vendors and community who want to learn more about doing business at the Airport. The information session will be at 2 p.m. on April 9 in TPA’s Main Terminal Event Space on Level 3, between the shuttles for Airsides E and F.

Registration for the event, which will include a virtual, is available here.

“Tampa International Airport’s award-winning Concessions program aims to provide our guests with the premium shopping and dining options," said Laurie Noyes, TPA's Vice President of Concessions and Commercial Parking. "We are excited to share a first look at preliminary space planning for the Concessions program.”

The information session will offer business networking opportunities and include a presentation about TPA’s Concessions program for retailers and restaurants. Presenters will share preliminary floor plans for the upcoming Concessions Redevelopment Program and information about navigating the process to find out more about Airport Concessions contracts.

Other topics will include how to register for and use TPA’s Procurement Portal to find opportunities at the Airport and more information on the Small Business Enterprise and Airport Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Programs.

Parking in the Long Term Parking Garage will be validated.

For more information about TPA’s Concessions department, please go here.

While TPA doesn’t anticipate breaking passenger records this year, the Airport will still be buzzing with activity. Travelers are encouraged to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures to ensure a smooth start to their journeys.

To make navigating the airport easier, TPA and its federal partners are debuting several cutting-edge enhancements designed to streamline the passenger experience.

Brand-New Airside Shuttles:
After extensive construction and thorough testing, the first of our shiny new shuttle cars for Airsides A and C are scheduled to launch in March. These modern vehicles with their new operating software and refurbished infrastructure are a significant upgrade for the shuttle system, bringing smoother, safer and more reliable service between the Main Terminal and Airsides.

Real-Time Security Wait Times:
For the first time ever, travelers will be able to view live security checkpoint wait times on digital displays located in the Main Terminal’s Shuttle Lobby at Airside A. The system, powered by advanced LiDAR technology, tracks passenger movement to provide accurate, real-time updates. Though average wait times hover around 10 minutes or less most of the year, they’re expected to rise during spring break, so arriving early remains key.

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID:
TPA’s new Touchless ID lanes use facial comparison technology for faster, contactless identity verification. Soon to be available to passengers flying American, Alaska, Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines, the system allows enrolled travelers to breeze through security while keeping privacy intact. Images are deleted within 24 hours of flight departure and passengers can opt out of Touchless ID and go through the standard TSA Precheck line using their driver license, passport, or other Real ID compliant form of identification. The system goes live at Airside E this week, with installation at TPA's other airsides in the coming weeks. 

Enhanced Passenger Processing for International Arrivals:
Returning U.S. passengers will notice quicker customs processing thanks to new biometric technology that reduces wait times by roughly 25 percent. Tampa International is among the first 15 airports nationwide to adopt this optional, contactless system known as Enhanced Passenger Processing, or EPP. 

Order-Ahead Convenience:
Hungry travelers can skip the lines by ordering meals or coffee ahead with TPA to Go via the Uber Eats or Starbucks apps, with pick-up available at participating TPA restaurants and shops, especially handy during busy morning rushes.

Reserve Parking in Advance:
To secure a spot and save, visitors can book parking at least 24 hours ahead for discounted rates.

With millions expected to pass through, spring break is often dubbed TPA's “Super Bowl.” Teams have been preparing for months, ensuring restaurants, shops, and parking garages are fully staffed, while the SkyConnect train will operate with extra cars to handle the surge.

TPA encourages all travelers to plan ahead, arrive early, and take advantage of these time-saving tools for a fun, stress-free spring break travel experience. Don't forget the sunscreen!