St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) soared to new heights in February, welcoming 194,876 passengers—its busiest February on record. Several key factors contributed to this surge, including newly added Allegiant routes, increased flight frequency, and strong efforts by Pinellas tourism businesses to rebound after recent hurricanes.
“We now see more frequent flights to the most popular destinations,” said Michele Routh, Public Relations Director for PIE. “Now, Asheville is a daily flight, and we have others operating four to six days a week.”
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PIE continues to expand its route network, now boasting 64 nonstop flights, including three operated by Sun Country Airlines. Some of the most in-demand destinations include Asheville, Knoxville, Cincinnati, Grand Rapids, Allentown, Concord (NC), Flint (MI), and Indianapolis.
Increasing frequency to the area’s most in-demand destinations
Recently, PIE introduced a new nonstop service to Colorado Springs, and more expansions are on the horizon. “Allegiant makes those decisions, and yes, they are planning more growth at PIE,” Routh explained. “Among Allegiant’s 120+ airports, we are in the top three in passengers.”
To keep up with increasing demand, PIE is undergoing its largest capital project in history—the Terminal Improvements Project. Currently in the design phase, this expansion will introduce more jet bridges, a consolidated TSA checkpoint, additional passenger waiting areas, and upgraded restrooms and concessions. “We need more space and amenities,” Routh said. “Plans include more jet bridges, consolidating two TSA checkpoints into one, and expanding passenger waiting areas, restrooms, and concessions.” Additionally, a new parking garage design kicks off this summer, addressing the need for more convenient parking options.
Major improvements in the works for PIE
For first-time travelers, PIE recommends arriving two hours before departure and checking fly2pie.com for essential airport information, including parking availability. “If you are parking at PIE, options are limited. You may be parking in one of our economy lots when long-term is full,” Routh advised. The website also provides quick links to Allegiant, TSA guidelines, and other helpful resources.
Ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience remains a top priority for PIE. “At PIE, we emphasize a friendly customer experience,” Routh said. “Whether you encounter an Allegiant, TSA, airport, concession, or rental car team member, we work together to create a great customer experience.”
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