Hurricane Irma: Florida Airports No Longer Closed & Ceased
While Orlando-based Stratos Jet Charters was able to help many families evacuate on private jets last week, now even emergency private jet flights are limited as Florida airports are trying to return to normal operations after ceasing and closing due to furious winds and fuel shortages. As the winds begin to retreat, power returns to most homes, and flash floods become less frequent, so many in south Florida are saying Irma was the worst storm they’ve ever seen. Even though Hurricane Irma was downgraded to a coastal storm, it caused immeasurable damage and devastation to many Florida properties. In the wake of one of the most devastating storms to hit Florida, however, airports in the area are beginning to return to normal operations. Here is our comprehensive list of Caribbean and Florida Airports as of 2 pm EST Sept. 12, 2017 — with specific details from airport websites.
Fort Myers (RSW)
“RSW is open for business! Most airlines are resuming flight operations mid-morning on Wednesday.”
Gainesville (GNV)
“As of 8:00 am this morning, the Gainesville Regional Airport has resumed normal operations. However, Hurrican Irma’s impact is still felt at Miami International Airport and travel to/from/through Atlanta and Charlotte might be impacted, too. American Airlines service to Miami is expected to resume on Friday afternoon, September 15.”
Tallhassee (TLH)
“TLH is open and ready for business! As a reminder, please check your flight status with your airline before heading to the airport.”
Daytona Beach (DAB)
“The Daytona Beach International Airport does not anticipate any scheduled flights Tuesday, Sept. 12.”
Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
“FLL opened for business at 4 AM. There are limited flight schedules. Please contact your airline regarding your flight status before coming to the airport.”
Jacksonville (JAX)
“Airport is open. Please contact your airline, not the airport, for most updated flight status.”
Key West (EYW)
No word yet on when EYW is expected to reopen.
Miami International Airport (MIA)
“”Passenger and cargo flights at Miami International Airport resumed Tuesday, Sept. 12 on a limited basis. Given that many airlines are not operating their full schedule of flights, passengers should contact their airline to confirm their flight’s status before coming to the airport.”
Naples Municipal Airport (APF)
Expected to reopen: TBA
Orlando (MCO)
“MCO operations resume this morning with a limited schedule based on airline and personnel availability. Check with your airline for flight updates.”
Orlando Melbourne (MLB)
“Good news! MLB Is now open. Orlando Melbourne International Airport’s terminal, restaurants and rental car operations are open. Please call your airline for the most up-to-date flight information.”
Orlando Sanford (SFB)
“Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is open; however, there are NO scheduled commercial passenger flights operating today, Tuesday, September 12. Therefore, passengers should not come to the airport today. Passengers should check with their airline about specific flight schedules for Wednesday and beyond.”
Sarasota–Bradenton (SRQ)
Some commercial flights are operating today, however the majority of regularly scheduled flights will resume tomorrow, Wednesday, September 13.
St Petersburg/Clearwater (PIE)
“PIE airport to reopen Tuesday, flights resume Wednesday.”
Tampa (TPA)
“Limited service resumed at Tampa International Airport on Tuesday, Sept. 12. We anticipate offering a full schedule by the end of the week. Check with airlines for details on specific flights.”
Vero Beach Regional Airport (VRB)
Expected to reopen: TBA
West Palm Beach (PBI)
“Only one Delta departure today. No other airlines operating today out of PBI. Other airlines plan to resume service Tuesday. Thank you for your patience as we work to return to normal operations. Please contact your airline for additional flight information.” Are you or someone you know trying to evacuate or make plans to return to Florida after the storm? Reach out to Stratos Jet Charters. With more than a decade of experience with emergency private jet flights and the highest safety certifications in the industry, we’re a trusted partner to families and organizations alike across America. **Feature image courtesy Orlando International Airport MCO