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SARASOTA — Newsflash: Sarasota Bradenton International Airport had yet another record breaking month in passenger traffic last month. But this time was significantly different.
This time, the record was broken for the highest passenger month in the airport’s history rather than year-over-year. In December, the airport saw 347,268 passengers pass through, which is an increase of 191.5% compared to the previous year.
Throughout the year, the airport also reported 3,163,543 passengers. Compared to 2020, that number is a 155.7% increase, and a 57% increase over 2019. The trending growth that was seen in 2021 is expected to continue through 2022, airport officials project. That’s especially true since there are about two million airline seats available for purchase for the first four months of this year alone — a 42% increase over last year, officials say.
“It is exciting to see the record breaking numbers and the projected growth for 2022,” says Rick Piccolo, president and CEO of SRQ, in a press release. “As the airport and community continue to grow, we are committed to providing the infrastructure, amenities and superior level of service our customers deserve.”
In addition, the recently added airline Avelo has begun its nonstop service flights to New Haven, Connecticut. The new service will operate Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Allegiant also is beginning a new nonstop service to Akron-Canton, Ohio, and Appleton, Wisconsin., which are set to begin in March. That brings SRQ up to 11 airlines servicing 53 nonstop destinations.
In order to keep up with demand, the airport tripled its jet fuel tank capacity with the addition of three 100,000 gallon jet fuel storage tanks, added remote parking lots and expanded long-term parking and the screening checkpoint area. SRQ isn’t stopping there. The plans for 2022 include breaking ground on a new ground transportation facility, expanded concessions, and a new ground level terminal which will provide at least five additional gates for aircraft arrivals and departures.
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