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Tampa International Airport previews Airside D expansion, cites passenger growth and tech upgrades
Summary
Michael Stephens, CEO of Tampa International Airport, told the county board Airside D will add about 16 gates, a new customs facility and modern biometric processes to handle forecasted growth to roughly 35–36 million passengers by 2037. Commissioners praised airport operations and staffing support during federal disruptions.
Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens presented the board with a progress update on Airside D at the April 1 meeting.
Stephens described Airside D as the airport's first new airside in more than 20 years, featuring about 16 new gates, a new customs facility and technology including biometric processing to speed passenger clearance. "Airside D ... is going to be an international airside with approximately 16 brand new gates, a new customs facility, state-of-the-art technology," Stephens said.
He said the airport is redeveloping concessions with a mix of national and local brands and emphasized opportunities for small businesses and employment tied to construction and future concessions. Stephens invited prospective vendors to a concessions redevelopment information session on April 9.
Commissioners thanked airport leadership for operational performance during peak travel and disruptions. Commissioner Harry Cohen and others noted that the airside is being financed through airport revenue streams rather than property taxes. Stephens said wait-time metrics and customer service improvements reflected strong operational teamwork and community support.
No board vote was required; commissioners used the presentation to ask questions about construction, local business opportunities and passenger trends.
