Tampa International Airport is a major gateway into Florida (Photo: Tampa International Airport)
Delta Air Lines will take the centrestage as Tampa International Airport in Florida, United States, gets set for a major transformation programme, with an investment of USD 1.5 billion.
In a press statement, Tampa International Airport says that the new terminal will include at least six gates dedicated to Delta, along with a brand-new Delta Sky Club lounge.
Delta, which is the third largest international carrier of the United States, currently operates several key routes from Tampa, including direct flights to major hubs such as Atlanta, Boston, New York JFK and La Guardia airports, and Minneapolis. The airline also offers an international connection to Amsterdam and is currently preparing to launch a direct service to Austin domestically. At present, Delta passengers can access a Sky Club in Concourse E near Gate 68, but the new lounge will further elevate the travel experience.
Joe Lopano
“This agreement will bring a world-class airline to what will be a world-class facility for our international and domestic routes. We look forward to continuing the high standards and excellence of both TPA and Delta as we elevate the travel experience for our guests here in Tampa Bay,” says Joe Lopano, CEO, Tampa Airport.
The statement adds that slated for completion in 2028, the newly expanded Terminal D is depicted as a cutting-edge facility featuring 16 gates in total. Renderings reveal a spacious glass-enclosed terminal designed to maximise natural light. The project officially broke ground in December 2024 with a celebration by airport officials. It includes a range of upgrades beyond the new gates, featuring such enhancements as a new shuttle system, an international arrivals processing area, and an array of new retail and dining options
The statement adds that Florida has seen substantial population growth over the past decade, earning the title of the fastest-growing state in the most recent United States Census. This rapid expansion has fueled an increased demand for air travel, and officials believe the new terminal will be a crucial addition to accommodate the growing number of passengers. Once completed, Tampa International Airport expects to serve approximately 37 million travellers annually.