Tampa Airport Braces for Record Spring Break Traveler Surge

TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa International Airport (TPA) is preparing for what is projected to be its busiest spring break season on record. An estimated 3.3 million passengers will travel through the airport from March 1 to April 6, 2023, averaging about 91,000 passengers per day.

Four days during this peak period are anticipated to exceed 100,000 travelers, with March 15 expected to be the busiest day, hosting over 101,000 passengers. Other high-volume days include March 22, March 29, and March 16.

To manage the significant influx of travelers, TPA’s management team is sharing advice to ensure a smooth travel experience. “Arriving early is critical,” a TPA spokesperson stated. Passengers are encouraged to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours early for international departures.

The airport noted potential disruptions due to ongoing checkpoint expansion projects, which currently limit TSA screening facilities. While these upgrades aim to improve security efficiency in the long run, they may contribute to temporary congestion during peak travel times.

Additionally, renovations to the airport’s shuttle system could cause longer wait times for passengers using Airside A and Airside C. Travelers heading to these concourses should plan accordingly and allow for extra transit time.

To alleviate congestion, TPA recommends utilizing the Blue Express Curbside drop-off lanes for those with carry-on luggage. This allows passengers to bypass ticketing and baggage claim areas, proceeding directly to security checks.

The spring break season typically generates heavier traffic between the airport and the Rental Car Center, as tourists often return vehicles before flights. To streamline this process, remote bag-check facilities are available on Level 4 of the Rental Car Center. This service is accessible to passengers flying with American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, or United Airlines.

“This unique service lets travelers check their luggage and receive boarding passes before heading to the terminal, enhancing convenience,” the spokesperson explained. Passengers are reminded to complete remote bag checks at least 90 minutes before their flights.

Tampa International Airport, located six miles west of downtown Tampa, is operated by the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority (HCAA) and serves as a key air travel hub in the Southeast. It offers nonstop flights to over 100 global destinations, including major cities across the U.S., the Caribbean, and Europe, despite not being a major hub for any legacy airlines.