Daytona Beach Airport: A Traveler's Guide To Daytona, Florida

Daytona Beach, Florida, is known for its iconic NASCAR race, boardwalk rides, and shopping. The city is served by several airports, with the closest being Daytona Beach International Airport, located only 3.4 miles away from the city. This airport is adjacent to the Daytona International Speedway and offers flights with American Airlines, Delta, and Sunwing.ca. Other nearby airports include Orlando Sanford International Airport (45.9 miles away), Orlando International Airport (74 miles away), and Melbourne International Airport (91 miles away). Each of these airports provides easy access to Daytona Beach and its many attractions.

Daytona Beach International Airport

The history of aviation in Daytona Beach dates back to the early 20th century when the beach's hard-packed sand served as a runway for early pilots. The first flight took place in 1906 when Charles K. Hamilton used Israel Ludlow's glider, pulled by an automobile. Over the years, the airport underwent several name changes, including Sholtz Field, Daytona Beach Municipal Airport, and Daytona Beach Regional Airport. It was used by airlines such as Eastern Air Transport, Florida State Airways, and National Airlines.

In the late 1930s, paved runways were constructed, accommodating larger aircraft. The airport played a role during World War II, with the US Navy taking over and using it for training purposes. After the war, ownership reverted to the city of Daytona Beach, and it continued to develop and expand its facilities.

Today, Daytona Beach International Airport offers year-round flights with Delta (serving Atlanta) and American Airlines (serving Charlotte and Washington Reagan National Airport seasonally). Additionally, Avelo Airlines provides non-stop flights to several destinations, including New Haven, Connecticut, and Philadelphia. The airport is also part of the Sunflower program, assisting travellers with hidden disabilities by providing them with extra assistance during their journey.

The airport's location makes it a convenient option for those visiting Daytona Beach, with just a few minutes' drive to most oceanfront hotels. For travellers looking for alternative options, nearby airports include Orlando International Airport, Orlando Sanford International Airport, and Jacksonville International Airport.

Orlando Sanford International Airport

Daytona Beach is a city on Florida's Atlantic coast, known for its NASCAR race, boardwalk rides, shopping, and more. The closest airport to Daytona Beach is the Daytona Beach International Airport, located only 3.4 miles away. However, if you're looking for other options, the Orlando Sanford International Airport is the second-closest airport to Daytona Beach, located about 45.9 miles away.

The airport started as a Naval Air Station Sanford, a Master Jet Base for carrier-based attack and reconnaissance aircraft, and was used by the U.S. Navy until 1969. The City of Sanford took control of the facility in 1969, renaming it the Sanford Airport and establishing the Sanford Airport Authority. Over the years, the airport underwent several name changes and renovations, transforming it into a modern aviation facility.

The airport has a variety of airlines serving both domestic and international destinations. It offers convenient transportation options, such as the Groome Transportation shuttle service, which provides daily round trips to and from Daytona Beach.

Orlando International Airport

Daytona Beach is served by several airports, including the Daytona Beach International Airport, which is the closest at 3.4 miles away. However, if you're looking for an international airport, the Orlando International Airport (MCO) is your best option. Here's everything you need to know about it:

Location and Distance:

Airlines and Destinations:

History and Facilities:

The airport has a rich history, originally constructed as an Army Air Forces facility during World War II. It was renamed multiple times, including Orlando Army Air Field #2 and Pinecastle Army Airfield. After the war, it served as a Strategic Air Command base. The airport gained its current name and international status in 1976. Orlando International Airport has expanded over the years, with new terminals, concourses, and runways added to accommodate the growing passenger traffic. Today, it covers 47 square kilometers and is one of the largest commercial airports in the United States in terms of land area.

Amenities and Services:

The airport features an on-site Hyatt Regency hotel located within the main terminal structure, offering convenience for travellers. Additionally, there is an interfaith chapel located behind the security area for Gates 1-59. The airport also has a variety of shops and restaurants, especially those offering souvenirs and dining options before leaving the airport.

Ground Transportation:

For ground transportation, travellers can utilise the Groome Transportation service, which provides a daily round-trip shuttle service between Daytona Beach and Orlando International Airport.

Melbourne International Airport

Daytona Beach does have an international airport, known as Daytona Beach International Airport. The airport is located only 3.4 miles from Daytona Beach and is served by American Airlines, Delta, and Sunwing.ca. Daytona Beach International Airport is a smaller airport compared to others in the state, and its compact size allows visitors to navigate more quickly and efficiently. The airport is also noted for its ease of access to rental cars and its short security lines.

In addition to the above, Central Florida offers several airport choices, including Orlando Sanford International Airport and Orlando International Airport, situated about 45.9 miles and 74 miles from Daytona Beach, respectively. These airports provide convenient access to popular Florida destinations and are served by various domestic and international carriers.

Jacksonville International Airport

Daytona Beach, Florida, is served by several airports, including Daytona Beach International Airport, which is located only 3.4 miles away from the city. Another option for travellers is Jacksonville International Airport, which is situated approximately two hours' drive north of Daytona Beach.

The airport has undergone several expansion projects over the years to accommodate increasing passenger traffic. The first phase of expansion was completed in 2004-2005, and by 2007, the airport processed over 6.3 million passengers. The second phase of expansion began in 2006 and cost approximately $170 million, involving the rebuilding of Concourses A and C. In 2018, the airport handled a record-breaking number of passengers, surpassing the previous record set in 2007. This led to the revival of plans to rebuild Concourse B, which is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2026.

Frequently asked questions