Damage assessments and cleanup efforts are currently taking place at various airports in Florida following Hurricane Milton’s impact on the western coast as a Category 3 storm.
Airports in the Tampa, Sarasota, and Orlando regions were closed in anticipation of the hurricane’s landfall, resulting in thousands of canceled flights. Hangars at Albert Whitted Airport in St. Petersburg suffered damage due to hurricane winds on October 10, 2024.
Additionally, several bridges and roads were closed, and damage evaluations are ongoing in the affected areas.
Here’s the latest on airport reopening timelines:
Tampa International Airport
The airport will resume commercial and cargo operations at 8 a.m. on Friday after a comprehensive inspection of its 3,300-acre facility. Officials confirmed that roadways are clear, parking garages are in good condition, and there are no wastewater issues. The air traffic control tower is also ready for full operations. However, some damage occurred due to strong winds and heavy rain, including damage to six boarding bridges and leaks in parts of the main terminal. Officials are evaluating staffing levels due to the significant number of evacuations during the hurricane.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport
All flights from this Tampa Bay area airport were canceled on Thursday, following an announcement that it would remain closed on Wednesday and Thursday. Passengers were advised to reach out to their airlines for updates on cancellations and service resumption.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport
This airport will remain closed on Thursday and Friday as officials assess conditions and begin cleanup operations. During the storm, it recorded one of the highest wind gusts at 102 mph.
Orlando International Airport
The airport is currently closed to both commercial and private operations due to significant wind gusts and rainfall overnight. Airport officials plan to make a reopening decision based on damage assessments. A Notice to Air Mission (NOTAM) indicated a potential reopening at 6 p.m. on Thursday; however, airport officials stressed this is contingent on ongoing assessments and preparations.
Orlando Sanford International Airport
Located north of Orlando, this airport is expected to resume operations on Friday. Passengers flying with Allegiant Airlines are encouraged to confirm flight status directly with the airline regarding any changes due to Milton.