Sarasota Bradenton airport smashes another record with almost 400K travelers in February
In February, 393,807 passengers traveled through Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, setting another new record for the month.
The previous record, 340,465, was set in February 2022.
The 16% increase is the highest number of passengers for the month of February in the history of SRQ.
The 12-month activity though February 2023 totals 3,976,376 passengers, a 13% increase compared to 3,519,721 passengers for the 12 months through February 2022.
“We continue to experience steep increases in the number of passengers utilizing our airport. The months of March and April are the two busiest months of the year due to the influx of spring break travelers,” Rick Piccolo, the airport’s president and CEO, said in a news release.
“Fortunately, airport operations have remained smooth with minimal flight delays, little to no wait times at the screening checkpoint, and ample vehicle parking.”
The airport is in the process of expanding, with multiple projects already started:
- new five-gate terminal
- new cellphone waiting lot
- additional overflow parking lots
- new ground transportation area
- new baggage handling system
- additional concessions.
“All these projects will take time to complete but the result will provide a facility that offers all the conveniences our travelers expect when using SRQ,” Piccolo said.
Earlier this month, the Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority approved a $71.5 million contract for the construction of a ground boarding facility and expansion of the existing concourse.
Substantial completion is required by Dec. 23, 2024, and $71.5 million is the guaranteed maximum price.
SRQ is served by 11 airlines providing service to over 50 nonstop destinations. On July 13, Breeze Airways introduces service to Providence, R.I., the newest offering at SRQ.
