Ruth Haines
Southwest Florida International Airport (IATA: RSW) is a major airport in the South Fort Myers area of unincorporated Lee County, Florida. The airport is located 10 miles southeast of Fort Myers and serves the Southwest Florida region, including the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Naples-Marco Island, and Punta Gorda metropolitan areas. With easy access to Interstate 75 and U.S. 41, the airport is within driving distance of various attractions, including beaches, golf courses, and outdoor activities. The airport has a single runway, designated as runway 06/24, and served over 11 million passengers in 2024, making it one of the busiest single-runway airports in the United States. As of 2024, the airport is operational and continuously improving, with ongoing terminal expansion projects to increase capacity and enhance efficiency.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Southwest Florida International Airport |
| Location | 10 mi (16 km) southeast of Fort Myers |
| Area | 13,555 acres (54.9 km2, 21.2 sq.mi.) |
| Runway | 06/24; 12,000 x 150 ft (3,658 x 46 m); asphalt surface |
| Operations | 97,077 in 2024, averaging 265 per day |
| Design capacity | 10 million passengers per year |
| Parking | 11,250 spaces for hourly/daily parking |
| Status | Operational; all operations including rental cars and TSA |
| Delays | Excessive delays reported |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- The airport is operational and served over 11 million passengers in 2024
- It is located 10 miles southeast of Fort Myers
- It is one of the top 50 US airports and the second-busiest single-runway airport in the US
- The Lee County Port Authority operates the airport
- The airport is expanding, with construction fencing on the lower-level roadways
The airport is operational and served over 11 million passengers in 2024
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is operational and served over 11 million passengers in 2024. The airport is located in the South Fort Myers area of unincorporated Lee County, Florida, and serves the Southwest Florida region, including the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Naples-Marco Island, and Punta Gorda metropolitan areas. With quick access to Interstate 75 and U.S. 41, the airport is perfectly positioned, allowing visitors to go from baggage claim to the beach in under 30 minutes. The airport covers 13,555 acres, making it the third-largest airport in the United States in terms of land size. It features a single runway, designated as runway 06/24, which measures 12,000 by 150 feet and is the fourth-longest runway in Florida.
The history of Southwest Florida International Airport dates back to 1980 when construction began. The airport opened on schedule on May 14, 1983, as Southwest Florida Regional Airport. Initially, it had a single 8,400-foot runway and a passenger terminal with 14 gates across two concourses. Over the years, the airport has undergone expansions and improvements, including the addition of international flights in 1984 and the construction of a Federal Inspection facility in 1993, coinciding with its renaming to Southwest Florida International Airport.
In 2024, the airport recorded 97,077 aircraft operations, averaging 265 per day. The design capacity is 10 million passengers per year, but the airport has the potential to expand incrementally to 65 gates on five concourses, significantly increasing its capacity. The Lee County Port Authority, which operates the airport, has embarked on the Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2, aiming to improve terminal roadways and ground transportation options. These enhancements are part of their efforts to increase capacity, improve airport efficiency, and provide passengers with more amenities and options.
Southwest Florida International Airport is conveniently located, offering easy access to beaches and attractions in the region. It is one of the newest airports in the nation, with a new terminal complex opening in 2005. The airport's location and modern facilities contribute to its operational success and ability to serve a significant number of passengers annually. The airport's efficiency and accessibility make it a preferred choice for travellers visiting the Southwest Florida region.
Airports in Puerto Rico: How Many Are There?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
It is located 10 miles southeast of Fort Myers
Southwest Florida International Airport (IATA: RSW) is located 10 miles southeast of Fort Myers. The airport is in the South Fort Myers area of unincorporated Lee County, Florida. It is one of the top 50 airports in the US and served more than 11 million passengers in 2024.
The airport is conveniently located with quick access to Interstate 75 and U.S. 41, making it an ideal gateway to the region's attractions. Visitors can go from the airport to the beach in under 30 minutes. The airport covers 13,555 acres of land, making it the third-largest airport in the United States in terms of land size.
Southwest Florida International Airport is a major county-owned airport and is the second-busiest single-runway airport in the United States. The runway measures 12,000 by 150 feet and has an asphalt surface. There are plans for a second runway. The airport has a design capacity of 10 million passengers per year, with 28 gates across three concourses (B, C, and D). The terminal buildings can be expanded incrementally to accommodate up to 65 gates across five concourses (A-E).
The Lee County Port Authority operates the airport and has been working on terminal roadway improvements and expansion projects. These improvements are aimed at increasing capacity, enhancing airport efficiency, and providing passengers with more amenities and options.
Kochi's Air Gateway: Exploring India's Aviation Hub
You may want to see also
Explore related products
It is one of the top 50 US airports and the second-busiest single-runway airport in the US
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is operational. It is one of the top 50 US airports and the second-busiest single-runway airport in the US. Located in South Fort Myers, in unincorporated Lee County, Florida, the airport serves the Southwest Florida region, including the Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Naples-Marco Island, and Punta Gorda metropolitan areas. It is a US Customs and Border Protection port of entry and has been operational since 1983.
The airport covers 13,555 acres, 10 miles southeast of Fort Myers, making it the third-largest airport in the United States in terms of land size. It has one runway, designated as runway 06/24, which measures 12,000 by 150 feet. The runway is asphalt, and there are plans for a second runway. In 2024, the airport had 97,077 aircraft operations, averaging 265 per day. The design capacity is 10 million passengers per year, with 28 gates across three concourses. However, the airport served 11,028,182 passengers in 2024, the most in its history. The terminal buildings can be expanded incrementally to accommodate up to 65 gates across five concourses.
The airport's location provides easy access to nearby attractions and beaches. It is conveniently connected to Interstate 75 and U.S. 41, making it a popular choice for travellers. The Lee County Port Authority operates the airport and has undertaken terminal expansion projects to enhance capacity and efficiency. These improvements include roadway improvements and changes to the location of ground transportation options, such as long-term parking shuttles and taxi services.
The airport has a rich history, with Delta Air Lines operating the first flight. Over the years, it has served several major airlines, including American Airlines, People Express, and USAir. The airport was renamed from Southwest Florida Regional Airport to Southwest Florida International Airport in 1993 to reflect its growing international presence. Today, it continues to be a significant transportation hub in the region, contributing to its economic development and tourism industry.
Airport Security: Overkill or Necessary Evil?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The Lee County Port Authority operates the airport
The Lee County Port Authority operates the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and Page Field (FMY) in Fort Myers, Florida. The airport served over 10 million passengers in 2023 and more than 11 million in 2024, making it one of the top 50 airports in the US.
The Lee County Port Authority was created on August 11, 1987, by the Lee Board of County Commissioners, who continue to govern it. The Authority operates as a dependent special district of Lee County, Florida, and its purpose is to manage and operate the Lee County public-use airports. This includes constructing, improving, financing, operating, and maintaining airport facilities to provide commercial air transportation, general aviation, and related services for Lee County and the surrounding area.
The Authority's jurisdiction includes the areas within the boundaries of Page Field and Southwest Florida International Airport, as well as various Airport Mitigation Lands in Lee County. The Authority is advised by an appointed group on all issues relating to the Lee County Airports.
Southwest Florida International Airport is one of the newest airports in the nation, with a new terminal complex opening in 2005. A terminal expansion project is currently underway, and the airport recently completed an incredible year of Hurricane Ian recovery with a record-breaking December in 2023. The airport's location in Fort Myers offers easy access to beaches and attractions in the region, including nearby golf courses and outdoor activities.
Denver Airport's Hotel: A Convenient Layover Option
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The airport is expanding, with construction fencing on the lower-level roadways
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is undergoing expansion as part of the Terminal Expansion Project Phase 2. The Lee County Port Authority, which operates the airport, has begun work on improving the terminal roadways. This will increase the airport's capacity, efficiency, and amenities for passengers.
As a result of these enhancements, travellers may notice construction fencing on the lower-level roadways. The ground transportation options will also change, with all ground transportation shifting from the commercial lanes on the outer lower-level curb to the first floor/ground level of the parking garage. This includes Long-term Parking shuttles, on-demand taxis/limos, hotel shuttles, and the LeeTran bus service.
The new pickup locations will be well-marked with signage inside the parking garage on the first floor/ground level. Travellers are advised to follow the signage and exercise caution when using the crosswalks. The changes may result in slightly longer exit times from the airport.
The Lee County Port Authority is committed to keeping travellers and airport users informed about any updates or changes. They will continue to post updates on the airport's website and Facebook page to ensure that everyone is well-informed about the ongoing expansion project and any associated impacts on airport operations.
Boston Logan Airport: Location and Terminal Guide
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is operational. In 2024, the airport served 11,028,182 passengers, the most in its history.
The airport is a major county-owned airport serving the Southwest Florida region. It is served by several major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, American Trans Air, and more.
The airport is easily accessible due to its proximity to Interstate 75 and U.S. 41, allowing travellers to reach various attractions within a short drive. Additionally, the airport offers a range of ground transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, and bus services.
