On August 1, 2022, the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) was awarded the 2022 Commercial Service Airport of the Year Award by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). This award recognizes outstanding achievements in airport aesthetics, safety, and airport management in the State of Florida.
The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is the fastest-growing commercial service airport in the state of Florida. For 2021, SRQ processed 3,163,542 passengers, a 155.7% increase over 2020 and a 61% increase over 2019. Over the past 4 years, the airport has grown from 6 airlines and 12 nonstop destinations to 11 airlines and 53 nonstop destinations.
SRQ utilizes modern technology on its air carrier runways and takes great care to ensure the airfield is maintained in compliance with all federal standards and regulations. SRQ places a high value on security with a recent installation of a new access control system and a digital CCTV system. The airport is regularly inspected by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) with outstanding results.
In 2020, an airport gateway project upgraded the airport entrance signage and landscaping. Parking lots were expanded to accommodate the rapid growth in traffic and the security checkpoint was increased from 4 to 6 lanes.
To support the continued growth of the airport, 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.
“We are honored to be named FDOT’s Commercial Service Airport of the Year for 2022,” stated Rick Piccolo, President, and CEO. “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.”