Tampa International Airport shines bright as a finalist in the 2026 Spotless Spaces Awards
Learn how you can vote to support TPA as one of America's most spotless spaces, a tribute to its Flagship janitorial crew and the work they do around the clock.
Tampa International Airport is aiming to clean up in the 2026 Spotless Spaces of the Year Awards! The airport and its custodial dream team from Flagship Facility Services have scrubbed, buffed, and polished their way into the national spotlight as one of nine U.S. finalists competing for the coveted title of “Spotless Space of the Year.”
The Spotless Spaces Competition celebrates teams that go above and beyond to create safe, healthy, and accessible environments, from sparkling floors to fresh, inviting spaces that leave visitors impressed.
TPA faces some stiff competition. Other U.S. finalists include the American Museum of Natural History, the John G. Shedd Aquarium, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, and the University of Maryland College Park. On the international side, nine finalists from around the globe will battle it out, representing everything from sports arenas and metro stations to universities.
Flagship Facility Services, which has been TPA’s janitorial partner for more than a decade, is proud to help keep every inch of the airport spotless, from the Main Terminal and Airsides, to food courts, restrooms, carpets, and hard floors. Their comprehensive cleaning program ensures that every surface shines and every restroom sparkles, all while enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers each year.
Flagship’s success is powered by teamwork and technology. Dedicated Quality Control inspectors work every shift to ensure standards are met across the entire facility. Every team member, from managers to custodial staff, is encouraged to take ownership of their space and report issues immediately, fostering a culture where cleanliness is everyone’s responsibility.
These efforts are supported by Flagship’s Quality Control platform, which streamlines inspections, reporting, and performance tracking. Real-time alerts allow for quick corrective action and ensure consistent results throughout the Airport. Transparency and data-driven processes help TPA maintain its reputation as one of the cleanest, most welcoming large airports in the U.S.
“TPA sets a high standard for cleanliness, sustainability and accessibility, helping ensure a safe and welcoming experience for everyone who passes through,” said Tony Parreira, Regional Operations Manager for Flagship. “It’s an honor to contribute to a space that is consistently spotless and worthy of industry recognition.”
Airport and Aviation Authority employees also do their part by proactively picking up litter and reporting any spills or messes to the Airport Operations Center for immediate dispatch of a cleaning crew – proof that cleanliness truly is a team effort at TPA.
As TPA and Flagship gear up for the final polish of competition season, they’re inviting the public to help them shine in this year’s contest.
You can cast your vote through Friday, March 6. Winners will be announced Sunday, March 22.