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Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers does not appear to be closing anytime soon. The airport served more than 11 million passengers in 2024 and is one of the top 50 airports in the US. However, the airport has undergone and continues to undergo various changes, including the closure of some restaurants in the main terminal and construction work on the terminal roadway as part of the Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2. Additionally, the airport has experienced temporary closures and flight cancellations due to extreme weather events such as hurricanes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Southwest Florida International Airport |
| Airport Code | RSW |
| Location | Fort Myers, Florida |
| Operating Authority | Lee County Port Authority |
| Operational Status | Open |
| Recent Events | Hurricane Milton, Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2 |
| Impact on Operations | Delays, changes to ground transportation pickup locations, closure of some restaurants |
| Passenger Traffic | Served over 11 million passengers in 2024 |
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What You'll Learn
- Fort Myers Airport is not closing but it has been affected by hurricanes in the past
- The airport is undergoing a Terminal Expansion Project to improve efficiency and provide more amenities
- The airport served more than 11 million passengers in 2024
- The front entrance to the Rental Car Facility will be closed
- The airport is one of the newest in the US, having opened in 1983
Fort Myers Airport is not closing but it has been affected by hurricanes in the past
There are no indications that the Fort Myers Airport is closing. However, the airport has been impacted by hurricanes in the past, which have caused disruptions and necessitated recovery efforts. In September 2024, Hurricane Helene struck Florida, affecting Fort Myers and the surrounding areas. The hurricane caused flooding and prompted multiple water rescues, including a man and his dog who were stranded off the coast of Sanibel Island. The city of Fort Myers waived building, permit, and inspection fees for 180 days to facilitate repairs related to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, demonstrating the impact of these storms on the region.
Hurricane Milton also caused significant devastation to Fort Myers Beach, leading to severe flooding and storm surges that affected numerous residences, including homes on Sterling Ave, a street known for its frequent flooding. The back-to-back impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton left residents struggling to recover and dealing with the challenges of flooding and debris. The Lee County Port Authority, which operates the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, has been actively involved in hurricane response and recovery efforts, coordinating with various agencies to provide assistance to affected areas.
While there is no indication of an imminent closure, it is important to note that the airport has experienced indirect effects from hurricanes. The Lee County Port Authority's focus on hurricane recovery and their ongoing Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2 may cause temporary inconveniences for travellers using the airport. These improvements aim to enhance the airport's functionality and better serve its users. As part of this project, travellers may encounter construction fencing on the lower-level roadways and changes in the pickup locations for various ground transportation options, including long-term parking shuttles and on-demand taxis.
The Fort Myers community, including the airport, has demonstrated resilience in the face of hurricanes. The Lee County Port Authority's commitment to keeping travellers informed through regular updates on their website and Facebook page showcases their proactive approach to managing any potential disruptions. While hurricanes may cause temporary challenges, the airport remains operational, and the community bands together to recover and rebuild, ensuring that Fort Myers Airport continues to serve its passengers safely and efficiently.
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The airport is undergoing a Terminal Expansion Project to improve efficiency and provide more amenities
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is not closing, but it is currently undergoing a Terminal Expansion Project to improve efficiency and provide more amenities. The airport, operated by the Lee County Port Authority (LCPA), is committed to providing a convenient, comfortable, and exceptional travel experience for its millions of annual passengers.
Phase 2 of the Terminal Expansion Project involves improvements to the terminal roadways. Construction fencing has been installed on the lower-level roadways, and there will be changes to the location of ground transportation options starting on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. This includes the pickup locations for long-term parking shuttles, on-demand taxis/limos, hotel shuttles, and the LeeTran bus service, which will all shift to the first floor/ground level of the parking garage.
The front entrance to the Rental Car Facility is also currently closed, with customers advised to use side entrances or the center rear door located on the ground level of the parking garage. These changes may result in slightly longer exit times, and travelers are advised to follow signage and exercise caution when using crosswalks.
Despite these ongoing improvements, RSW remains focused on offering a seamless and enjoyable travel experience. The airport provides nonstop service to 72 destinations by 15 air carriers and is dedicated to serving the region's commercial air service needs. The LCPA continues to post updates on its website and Facebook page to keep travelers informed of any changes or disruptions during this expansion phase.
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The airport served more than 11 million passengers in 2024
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is not closing. However, it has undergone and will continue to undergo some changes and improvements. The airport served over 11 million passengers in 2024 and is one of the top 50 airports in the US.
In 2024, the airport was affected by Hurricane Milton, which caused disruptions and cancellations to flights. The airport was closed for a period before reopening, along with other Florida attractions, as the state recovered from the hurricane.
RSW is currently undergoing the Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2, which involves improvements to the terminal roadway and the relocation of ground transportation options. These changes aim to improve airport efficiency and provide passengers with more amenities. As a result, travellers will notice construction fencing on the lower-level roadways, and the pickup locations for various transportation services will be different from January 8, 2025.
In addition, the front entrance to the Rental Car Facility is currently closed, with customers directed to use side entrances or the centre rear door located on the ground level of the parking garage. The airport encourages travellers to follow signage, be cautious when using crosswalks, and allow for extra time when leaving RSW due to these changes.
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The front entrance to the Rental Car Facility will be closed
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is not closing. However, the airport is undergoing some changes as part of the Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2. As part of this project, the front entrance to the Rental Car Facility will be closed. This means that customers will need to enter through the side entrances or use the center rear door of the Rental Car Facility, which is located on the ground level of the parking garage. The crosswalks at Doors 2 and 5 will remain open for easy access between the terminal and the garage. Due to these changes, customers may experience some delays when leaving RSW.
To ensure a smooth transition during this period, the Lee County Port Authority has provided clear signage to guide travelers to the alternative entrances. They are also providing updates on their website and Facebook page to keep travelers informed about any further changes. It is recommended that travelers follow these sources for the most up-to-date information.
The closure of the front entrance to the Rental Car Facility is just one aspect of the ongoing improvements at RSW. The airport is committed to enhancing the travel experience for its millions of annual passengers. As part of this expansion project, there will be changes to the location of ground transportation options starting on January 8, 2025. This includes adjustments to the pickup locations for long-term parking shuttles, on-demand taxis or limos, hotel shuttles, and the LeeTran bus service.
The Lee County Port Authority is working diligently to improve airport efficiency and provide passengers with more amenities and options. These changes may cause temporary inconveniences, but the long-term benefits will ultimately enhance the overall travel experience for those passing through Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers.
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The airport is one of the newest in the US, having opened in 1983
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is not closing, but it is undergoing some changes. The airport is one of the newest in the US, having opened in 1983. It is currently operated by the Lee County Port Authority (LCPA) and is focused on providing a convenient, comfortable, and exceptional travel experience to its millions of annual passengers.
RSW is undergoing a Terminal Expansion Project, with Phase 2 currently in progress. This has resulted in construction fencing on the lower-level roadways and changes to the pickup locations for ground transportation options. These include long-term parking shuttles, on-demand taxis or limos, hotel shuttles, and the LeeTran bus service, which will now pick up from the first floor/ground level of the parking garage. The front entrance to the Rental Car Facility is also closed, with customers directed to use side entrances or the center rear door. These changes are aimed at improving airport efficiency and providing more amenities and options for passengers.
The airport's commitment to offering a superior travel experience is evident through its beautiful setting and focus on convenience and comfort. It served more than 11 million passengers in 2024, ranking it among the top 50 airports in the US. The LCPA continues to provide updates on its website and Facebook page to keep travelers informed of any changes or disruptions during this expansion phase.
While there is no indication of the airport closing, temporary closures or disruptions may occur due to factors such as severe weather. For instance, in October 2024, the airport reopened after Hurricane Milton, which caused flight cancellations and power outages across Florida.
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Frequently asked questions
No, the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is not closing. However, the airport has previously closed temporarily due to Hurricane Milton. The airport is also undergoing construction as part of the Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2, which may cause some inconvenience but the airport will remain operational.
The Lee County Port Authority is working on improving the terminal roadways and expanding the terminal to improve airport efficiency and provide passengers with more amenities and options.
Construction fencing on the lower-level roadways was expected to begin on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. The pickup locations for ground transportation options will also change from the commercial lanes to the first floor/ground level of the parking garage.
Yes, on the evening of Saturday, April 19, 2025, Nathan's, Quiznos, Shula's Bar & Grill, and Starbucks in the center of the main terminal will be permanently closed.
