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Tampa Airport TPA

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Tampa Airport (TPA) Guide

Discover Tampa Airport (TPA), your starting point to Florida's Gulf Coast, known for its unique airside-landside terminal design enhancing traveler flow. Our concise guide covers essential travel tips, from flight updates and parking to dining and shopping at TPA. Navigate your way effortlessly with our terminal maps and directories, ensuring a seamless journey. Safe travels!

Explore more about major airports with our Comprehensive Airport Guide on iFly.com.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Is Tampa Airport (TPA) airport a bit unfamiliar to you? Look no further than iFly.com for insightful tips and advice. Read on!

Tampa International Airport has a total of six terminals: Airside A, Airside B, Airside C, Airside E, Airside F, and Landside. Airside A has 16 gates, Airside B has 14 gates, Airside C has 15 gates, Airside E has 13 gates, and Airside F has 14 gates. Landside is the area before security and does not have any gates.

Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest use multiple terminals at TPA. American Airlines and Delta use Airside A, United uses Airside C, and Southwest uses Airside E and Airside C.

When navigating the terminals, it is important to pay attention to the flight information displays located throughout the airport. These displays will show your flight's gate number and any important updates or changes. If you need assistance, there are information desks located in each terminal.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

At the airport, there are several ways to get between the terminals. If you need to travel between Airside A, B, and C, you can use the SkyConnect train. The train runs every few minutes and takes approximately five minutes to travel between the terminals. If you need to get to Airside E or F, you can take the shuttle bus. The shuttle bus runs every 15 minutes and takes approximately 10 minutes to travel between the terminals.

If you have some time to spare and want to stretch your legs, you can walk between the terminals. The Landside terminal is connected to all the Airside terminals via walkways. It takes approximately 10-15 minutes to walk between the Landside terminal and Airside A, and approximately 5-10 minutes to walk between Airside A, B, and C.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At TPA, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated curbside areas outside of each terminal. However, it is important to note that curbside parking is strictly prohibited and vehicles left unattended may be towed. To avoid any issues, drivers should plan to drop off or pick up passengers quickly and move their vehicle to a designated parking area.

If you need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport provides free cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal. These areas allow drivers to park their vehicle for up to 60 minutes while waiting for their passengers to arrive. Once the passengers have collected their baggage and are ready to be picked up, drivers can quickly make their way to the curbside area for pickup.

Parking Facilities & Options

Travelers flying out of Tampa International Airport have several parking options available to them. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with garages and lots located within walking distance of the terminals.

For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas located near the airport where you can wait for free until your party has arrived and retrieved their luggage.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking garages and lots, with designated spaces located near the elevators and shuttle stops.

Off-airport parking is also available for those looking for a more economical option. These lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminals.

Get details about TPA parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Travelers arriving at TPA Airport have several transportation options to choose from, including car rentals, taxis, shared ride services, airport shuttles, and public transportation.

Car rental facilities are located on the ground level of the airport's parking garage. Major providers include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Customers can easily pick up and drop off their rental cars at the designated areas near the baggage claim areas.

Taxi services are available 24/7 at the airport's designated taxi stands located outside the baggage claim areas. The fare to downtown Tampa is approximately $25, and the fare to St. Petersburg is approximately $50. Additional fees may apply for tolls, baggage, and other services.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. Passengers can request a ride using the app and meet their driver at the designated pickup areas located on the arrivals level. However, there are restrictions on pickups and drop-offs at certain areas of the airport, so passengers should check with their driver before requesting a ride.

Airport shuttles are another convenient option for travelers. Several companies provide shuttle services to and from the airport, including SuperShuttle and ExecuCar. Passengers can book their shuttle in advance or at the airport's transportation kiosk, located near the baggage claim areas. Fares vary depending on the destination and the number of passengers.

Finally, public transportation is available at the airport via the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) bus system. The bus stop is located on the east end of the Red Baggage Claim curbside. Passengers can take Route 30 to downtown Tampa, which operates every 30 minutes on weekdays and every hour on weekends. The fare is $2 per ride, and exact change is required.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a comfortable stay near the airport? We've got you covered! From luxurious stays at renowned hotel chains to budget-friendly options, we have a wide range of hotels to choose from. Some of these hotels are just a stone's throw away from the airport and offer unique experiences tailored for extended stays. They also provide additional benefits such as free airport shuttle services, fitness centers, and WiFi connectivity. Several hotels are located within close proximity to popular shopping centers and business districts, making them an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. Discover the perfect accommodation for your next trip through our comprehensive guide on Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors and retail therapy at Tampa Airport. With a plethora of dining options and unique shops, you'll find everything you need to satisfy your cravings and retail desires. From the iconic Hard Rock Café to the local favorite Goody Goody, there's something for everyone.

When it comes to shopping, you'll find everything from high-end designer wear to travel essentials. These diverse outlets offer everything from travel essentials and high-tech gadgets to designer wear and indulgent treats, catering to a variety of passenger needs. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or browsing for souvenirs, the maps make it easy to find what you need.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Tampa Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, plan your visit using this guide.

Passenger Services

If you're flying through the airport, you'll be pleased to know that there are a variety of passenger services available to make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. If you've lost something during your travels, check with the Lost and Found office located in the Main Terminal. Families traveling with young children can take advantage of the children's play areas located in each airside terminal. Special-needs services are also available, including accessible parking, wheelchair assistance, and accessible restrooms.

If you need to do some banking, there are ATMs and currency exchange services available in the Main Terminal. Medical help is also available if needed, with first aid stations located in each airside terminal and a medical clinic located in the Main Terminal.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At Tampa Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status and stay up-to-date on any changes.

One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information about flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find your flight on the display and check the status.

Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check-in for your flight. You can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications to receive updates about your flight status.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Tampa Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled domestic flight and 3 hours before your international flight. The busiest times to avoid are weekday mornings from 6am to 9am and weekends from 10am to 2pm.

Getting to the Airport

The best way to get to Tampa Airport is by car or taxi. If you are driving, there are several parking options available, including short-term, long-term, and valet parking. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, such as Uber or Lyft. There are also several shuttle services available from nearby hotels.

Getting Oriented

To get oriented at Tampa Airport, use iFly.com's interactive airport maps. These maps provide detailed information on the airport's layout, including the location of terminals, gates, and amenities. You can also use the maps to find your way to baggage claim and ground transportation.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at TPA, make sure to arrive early and allow plenty of time for security screening and boarding. You can also sign up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to expedite the security process. Additionally, check the airport's website or mobile app for updates on flight delays and cancellations before you leave for the airport.

Security Wait Times

At TPA Airport, TSA Security wait times can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. During peak travel times, such as holidays and weekends, wait times can be longer. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow time for check-in, security screening, and boarding. However, you can check the current TSA wait times on the airport's website. This way, you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport and ensure a stress-free travel experience. Check TSA Wait Times now to plan your trip accordingly.

Airport Facts & Stats

TPA, also known as TPA, is a major airport located in the United States. It has a total of six terminals, including Airside A, Airside B, Airside C, Airside E, Airside F, and Landside.

On average, TPA Airport handles around 80,000 passengers daily and has approximately 500 daily flights. The airport serves over 90 destinations worldwide, with the top five destinations being Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and New York LaGuardia.

The top airlines with the most daily flights at the airport are Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines. These airlines account for a significant portion of the airport's daily traffic.

Tampa Airport is also a hub for several airlines, including Silver Airways, which operates flights to various destinations across Florida and the Bahamas, and Frontier Airlines, which offers low-cost flights to popular destinations in the United States and Mexico.

Airport History

Tampa International Airport, located in Tampa, Florida, has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1928. Since then, it has undergone numerous renovations and expansions to become the bustling airport it is today.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1928 - Tampa International Airport opens as Drew Field Municipal Airport, named after local Army Air Corps pilot Charles M. Drew.
  • 1941 - The airport is renamed to Drew Army Airfield and becomes a major training base during World War II.
  • 1946 - The airport is returned to the city of Tampa and renamed Tampa International Airport.
  • 1952 - The first commercial airline service begins at the airport.
  • 1961 - The airport's iconic main terminal building, designed by architect William B. Harvard, opens.
  • 1971 - The airport's first international flight takes off to London.
  • 1987 - The airport undergoes a major expansion, including the addition of a new airside terminal and parking garage.
  • 2003 - The airport completes a $1 billion renovation project, which includes the addition of a new landside terminal and automated people mover system.
  • 2017 - Tampa International Airport is ranked the #2 airport in the United States by Travel + Leisure magazine.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Tampa International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: TPA
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 813-870-8700
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Tampa International Airport, 4100 George J Bean Parkway, Tampa, FL 33607, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

Last updated:

Tampa Airport Q&A

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Tampa Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Travelers arriving at TPA Airport have several transportation options, including car rentals, taxis, shared ride services, airport shuttles, and public transportation. More details can be found here for airport shuttles and here for public transportation.
Information about TPA parking options and rates, including more economical off-airport parking, can be found here.
Yes, Tampa Airport offers a range of hotel options, from luxury to budget-friendly. Discover the perfect accommodation for your next trip through our comprehensive guide on Airport Hotels.
Tampa Airport has a wide range of dining options and unique shops to satisfy your cravings and retail desires. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and newsstands, plan your visit using this guide.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates at Tampa Airport.
Special-needs services at Tampa Airport include accessible parking, wheelchair assistance, and accessible restrooms. For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. If you've lost something during your travels, check with the Lost and Found office.