TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa International Airport is projected to break its all-time record for most passengers in a single day this spring break.
Officials from the airport reported that it already broke the record last week, when 93,334 passengers passed through on Feb. 25.
But projections from booking data suggest that it could see even higher numbers on March 9 and March 17, with more than 100,000 passengers expected on both days.
The airport is also preparing to accommodate 90,000 to 100,000 passengers every Saturday and Sunday during the 38-day spring break travel period.
“I would say this airport’s a little bit busier than Michigan’s airport, but we did depart around like 8:00am, so it’s getting a little bit more packed in the afternoon now," said Victoria Strom, who is visiting from Detroit.
TPA officials said Saturday, March 22 and Saturday, March 29 are expected to be busy travel days.
"A couple of us had nothing really to do for spring break so kind of a spontaneous idea to come here to Florida. We kind of just wanted to go to the beach somewhere warm, it's kind of cold in Chicago," said Evan Pollina who lives in Chicago.
To ensure smooth traveling, TPA suggested arriving early, two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before international travel, taking into consideration both the amount of people and several ongoing construction projects.
“We always come to the airport around two hours before our flight," said Lily Skillas, who is visiting from Canada. "We like flying early."
Airport staff also recommended taking advantage of Blue Express Curbsides for people with carry-ons only and booking parking online in advance.
TPA officials said passengers may also order ahead and have your latte or burger waiting when you arrive. Customers can use the Uber Eats App at TPAtoGo.com, or the Starbucks mobile app to order and pay. The app will provide an estimated wait time, allowing you to avoid standing in line and swing by the counter when your order is ready to pick up.
TPA offers online booking for parking, which has discounted pricing on its Short Term, Long Term and Economy garages, some of which may reach capacity during peak days.
Airport officals said online bookings also help TPA anticipate demand and manage its garage space availability, making parking easier for everyone.
TPA said the weeks surrounding March and April are typically its busiest time of year, with more passengers than even Christmas or Thanksgiving.
