FL Commercial Airport Of Year Award Goes To Sarasota-Bradenton Airport

SARASOTA, FL — The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport was named the 2022 Commercial Service Airport of the Year by the Florida Department of Transportation.

The award recognizes Florida airports for achievements in aesthetics, safety and management.

The airport is the fastest-growing commercial service airport in the state, according to a news release from SRQ.

In 2021, Sarasota Bradenton International processed more than 3.16 million passengers — a 155.7 percent increase over 2020 and a 61 percent increase over 2019, the airport said. Over the past four years, it’s also grown from six airlines and 12 nonstop destinations to 11 airlines and 53 nonstop destinations.

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Two years ago, an airport gateway project upgraded SRQ’s entrance signage and landscaping. Parking lots were expanded to accommodate the rapid growth in traffic and the security checkpoint was increased from four to six lanes, the airport said.

To support its continued growth, more than $200 million in construction projects have been approved for airport expansion and improvements.

Projects include a new five-gate passenger terminal, an apron expansion for aircraft parking, an updated baggage handling system, a new consolidated rental car facility, a new Customs facility for general aviation, a new ground transportation area and a revamped cell phone lot, SRQ said.

“We are honored to be named FDOT’s Commercial Service Airport of the Year for 2022,” Rick Piccolo, president and CEO, said. “This award acknowledges the outstanding efforts of our employees, contractors, and concessionaires, as well as the strong support from our governing board. Their enthusiasm and commitment help improve the travel experience for our passengers and the desirability of SRQ as the airport of choice.”