Milton Disrupts Florida Airports As Hurricane Heads Towards The State

FLORIDA - As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida's Gulf Coast, several airports across the state have announced closures and flight cancellations.

In West and Central Florida, Tampa International Airport (TPA) has been closed and will remain closed until it is safe to reopen.

TPA announced on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday "TPA IS NOW CLOSED: TPA suspended operations at 9 a.m. Tuesday in preparation for Hurricane Milton. ⛈️ Airport staff are now securing the airfield, terminals, jet bridges and ground equipment."

St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE) will close after its last flight departs on Tuesday, and all flights have been canceled for Wednesday and Thursday.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) will be closed on Wednesday.

The airport Tweeted on Wednesday "Operational Update/6 - Hurricane Milton Our airport has now ceased commercial operations in anticipation of the arrival of Hurricane Milton. We'll resume operations as soon as it's safe, based on damage assessments, and keep you updated with the latest information. Stay safe, FL."

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday.

The airport announced on Facebook "RSW will be CLOSED on Wednesday, Oct. 9 and Thursday, Oct. 10. This includes the rental car facilities. Contact your airline for the most up-to-date flight information. Please remember, the airport is not a public shelter. Stay Safe. RSW Cares About You."

RSW will be CLOSED on Wednesday, Oct. 9 and Thursday, Oct. 10. This includes the rental car facilities. Contact your...

Posted by Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) on Tuesday, October 8, 2024

In South Florida, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) remains open and operational, but airlines have canceled flights to key storm-affected areas.

Miami International Airport (MIA) is also open, but flights may be canceled.

Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) and Key West International Airport (EYW) remain open and operating as usual.

Travelers are advised to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight status before heading to the airport.