TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa International Airport is now fully open and operational after suspending commercial and cargo flight operations on Thursday due to Hurricane Helene.
Airport Operations staff conducted damage assessments early Friday morning and found no significant damage from the storm.
“After working diligently to protect the safety of our travelers, employees and facilities, TPA has fared well through this large and dangerous storm,” Tampa International Airport CEO Joe Lopano said. “We now can turn our attention to serving our community and travelers and assisting in efforts to help our fellow Floridians recover from Helene.”
Read: Pinellas County Sheriff, Crews Work To Clean Up Barrier Islands After Hurricane Helene
For travelers, all essential services like TSA checkpoints, parking, SkyConnect, and the Rental Car Center are open. However, some shops and restaurants will reopen gradually throughout the day.
Passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure due to expected high volumes and potential delays or cancellations. It’s crucial to check with your airline for the latest flight status updates, as TPA doesn’t control those schedules.
Regarding General Aviation Airports, Peter O. Knight Airport remains closed due to flooding, with no set reopening time yet. Tampa Executive and Plant City airports are resuming operations today.
Previous coverage:
Tampa International Airport (TPA) will temporarily suspend all commercial and cargo operations starting at 2 a.m. on Thursday, September 26th, in anticipation of Hurricane Helene. The airport will remain closed to the public until a thorough damage assessment can be conducted after the storm passes.
The closure will allow TPA and its partners to secure the airfield and terminals, including jet bridges, ground equipment, and any remaining aircraft. Three other public airports managed by the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority – Peter O. Knight, Tampa Executive, and Plant City Airports – will also close at the same time.
Read: Hurricane Helene Intensifies As It Heads To Florida, DeSantis Urges Final Preparations
TPA reminds the public that the airport, including the Main Terminal and Airsides, will not be accessible and is not equipped to serve as a shelter for people or vehicles.
The airport anticipates reopening on Friday after a damage assessment, which will begin as soon as it is safe. The reopening will be coordinated with partners like the Transportation Security Administration and airlines, considering factors like roadway safety, facility readiness, and staffing. Any changes to the reopening timeline will be communicated promptly.
Important reminders for passengers:
- Contact your airline directly for the latest flight information.
- Stay informed about weather forecasts for your area and any travel destinations.
- Follow TPA’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, @FlyTPA, for the most up-to-date information.
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