Damage assessments and cleanup efforts are in progress at various airports in Florida following Hurricane Milton, which made landfall on the state’s western coast as a Category 3 storm.
Airports in the Tampa, Sarasota, and Orlando regions had closed in anticipation of the hurricane, leading to significant flight cancellations.
At Albert Whitted Airport in St. Petersburg, hangars were damaged due to strong winds from Hurricane Milton on October 10, 2024.
Following the hurricane, several bridges and roads were also closed while assessments of the damage began.
Here’s an update on the expected reopening of major airports in the affected areas.
Tampa International Airport will resume commercial and cargo operations at 8 a.m. on Friday after a comprehensive inspection of its 3,300-acre facility. Airport officials confirmed that roadways are clear, parking garages are in good condition, and there are no wastewater issues. The Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting station sustained no significant damage, and the FAA has cleared the air traffic control tower for full operations. However, some damage did occur on the airport campus, including six damaged boarding bridges and leaks in the main terminal that require repairs.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport has canceled all flights scheduled for Thursday. Officials announced the airport would be closed on Wednesday and Thursday and advised passengers to reach out directly to airlines for updates on cancellations and service resumption.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport will remain closed through Thursday and Friday as officials evaluate conditions and begin cleanup efforts after Hurricane Milton, which recorded wind gusts reaching 102 mph in the area. Travelers are encouraged to follow the airport’s social media for updates.
Orlando International Airport is still closed to both commercial and private operations due to the severe winds and rain that affected the region overnight. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is reviewing the damage before making a decision on reopening. Although a Notice to Air Mission (NOTAM) indicated a planned opening at 6 p.m. Thursday, airport officials emphasized that this schedule does not reflect ongoing damage assessments.
Orlando Sanford International Airport, located north of Orlando, plans to resume operations on Friday. Passengers flying with Allegiant are recommended to check with the airline for updates regarding flight impacts related to Hurricane Milton.