Comprehensive Shutdown at Tampa International Airport
In response to the escalating threat of Hurricane Milton, Tampa International Airport (TPA) will cease all operations starting at 09:00 local time on October 8, 2024. This precautionary measure includes the suspension of both commercial and cargo activities to ensure the safety of all personnel and infrastructure. The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority has also decided to close Peter O. Knight, Tampa Executive Airport, and Plant City Airport simultaneously. The airports will remain closed until it is safe to assess and repair any damages post-storm.
Preparation and Safety Measures at TPA
Prior to the shutdown, extensive preparations are underway at TPA. This includes securing jet bridges, ground equipment, and any aircraft still present. The airport has clearly stated that it will not serve as a shelter for people or vehicles, emphasizing its location in a designated evacuation zone ‘A’. No staff will be available to provide emergency assistance, and emergency services will be unable to respond to the airport during the hurricane.
American Airlines Enhances Flight Capacity for Evacuees
American Airlines is proactively increasing its capacity by adding over 2,000 seats for flights departing from Tampa International Airport and Sarasota Bradenton International Airport on October 7-8, 2024. This initiative is aimed at accommodating the surge of passengers needing to evacuate the area. Following these additional flights, American Airlines plans to suspend operations at these airports shortly after midnight on October 8, 2024. They are also monitoring conditions to make further adjustments at other regional airports.
American Airlines has issued a travel alert for 12 airports in Florida, allowing passengers affected by Hurricane Milton to rebook their flights without incurring change fees. Passengers can reschedule their flights through the American Airlines website, mobile app, or by contacting their reservation centers.
State of Florida on High Alert
The state of Florida is on high alert as it braces for Hurricane Milton, forecasted to be one of the most destructive hurricanes for west-central Florida. This comes shortly after the state dealt with Hurricane Helene, which affected six states in the Southwestern US in late September 2024, resulting in significant devastation and over 200 fatalities.